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Wish Granted: 10-Year-Old Cancer Survivor Collaborates with Local Artist

By Jordan Magaziner Steinfeld, Staff writer | September 15, 2021

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Melinda Moreno, 10, a pediatric cancer survivor, has been collaborating with local artist Edgar Medina as part of a wish granted from Make-A-Wish Foundation. (Photo courtesy of Make-A-Wish Gulf Coast & Louisiana)

In 2019, Melinda Moreno discovered she had a brain tumor. She was 8 years old at the time.

She went through 30 rounds of proton therapy and surgery at Texas Children's Hospital. After undergoing treatment, the news that she was in remission brought incredible relief to Melinda and her family.

Melinda said she has learned a lot from her time working with Edgar. (Photo courtesy of Make-A-Wish Gulf Coast & Louisiana)

While quarantined at home during the pandemic, Melinda, a fourth grader at Condit Elementary School, spent her time drawing. She’s always enjoyed art, but the extra time at home helped her realize that art was her passion.

So when Melinda had the opportunity to request a wish from Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana, she asked for art lessons and the opportunity to have her art showcased in a gallery.

Her wish was granted. Recently, she’s spent time working with local artist Edgar Medina, who specializes in abstract and mixed painting on canvas. The two have worked together on a series of abstract paintings – inspired by her cancer experience - called “Moments Through Seasons.” Melinda created four pieces, Edgar created four of his own, and then they created four collaboratively.

In a Zoom call with Melinda, she shared that abstract pieces are her favorite kind of art. Throughout the journey working with Edgar, she said she has enjoyed the opportunity to learn various techniques and the one-on-one time with a real artist. She hopes to pursue art as a career one day, she said.

Melinda and Edgar's art collaboration, called “Moments Through Seasons,” will be displayed at Laura Rathe Fine Art in the River Oaks District this month, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. (Photo courtesy of Make-A-Wish Gulf Coast & Louisiana)

The experience has helped Melinda, who has a shy temperament, express herself and gain confidence, shared her mom, Linda Reyes.

This week, the second part of Melinda’s wish will be granted: “Moments Through Seasons” will be displayed at Laura Rathe Fine Art in the River Oaks District. Proceeds from the artwork auctioned at the exhibit will benefit Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana. "Moments Through Seasons" will be showcased Thursday, Sept. 16, 6-8 p.m. during a special exhibition night and will be available for 10 additional days for the public to view. Check it out virtually here.