Creating art is one of the ways an individual can help control stress that can have serious health implications, says Dr. Jose Tongol, a physician at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital who is board certified in medical oncology, hematology, and internal medicine.
Art is one of the creative avenues Tongol uses. An exhibition of his work, Inspiring Wellness Through the Arts, is on display in the Hodges Gallery at the Albany Museum of Art. It is scheduled to show through the end of June.
The exhibition consists of “some of my artwork, basically pencil drawings,” Tongol said. He was inspired to take up drawing after taking a drawing workshop at the AMA.
His exhibition comes at an especially appropriate time. June is National Cancer Survivors Month. Sales of his artwork will benefit the Gloria Tongol Cancer Wellness Fund, with a portion going to the Albany Museum of Art.
Tongol, whose wife is a cancer survivor, named the foundation for his mother, who died from lung cancer.
In addition to his artwork, the doctor is well known for his musical performances locally with his band, the Yo-Yos. His exhibition at the AMA also includes some books he has compiled of his drawings and poetry.
The Gloria Tongol Cancer Wellness Fund teaches cancer survivors “how to take care of themselves,” including reducing stress through activities like artwork, yoga, and meditation, the doctor said.
