Public Invited to Attend Creative Writing Workshop Offered by Mayo Clinic

Monday, October 04, 2004

Mayo Clinic Center for Humanities in Medicine and Mayo Clinic Cancer Center are co-sponsoring a creative writing workshop, "Treasuring Memories through Writing," on Tuesday, Oct. 12, from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Mayo Clinic Cancer Education Center (Gonda Building, lobby level).

This workshop will explore the importance of exploring personal memories through writing. Participants will read published and unpublished passages describing life events that, over time, have turned into meaningful memories. The workshop will also include a short writing session and time to share ideas about how writing can help examine life's problems and joys.

Creative writing or journaling can lead to a deeper self-understanding, help transcend the pain of a particular event and help gain perspective on problems. Today, a growing number of health professionals are using creative writing to help people cope with anxiety, depression, bereavement, post-traumatic stress, learning disabilities and eating disorders. Creative writing has also been hailed as a powerful tool for increasing both confidence and self-awareness in the field of personal development.

Kirsi Mohney will facilitate the class. Mohney holds a Bachelor of Arts from Southwestern University in Texas and a Master of Arts from the University of Minnesota. Her volunteer work at Saint Marys Hospital has inspired her to explore the benefits of creative writing in the care and support of patients.

"Treasuring Memories through Writing" is open to Mayo Clinic patients, visitors, staff and the community. Because space is limited to approximately 30 participants, people interested in attending should preregister by calling (507) 284-9589. Registered participants should bring a notebook and a pencil or pen.
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