Teen Started Painting Jeans to Pass Time After Major Surgery. She’s Now Raised Nearly $100,000 to Provide Art Therapy for Kids in Hospitals

**Teenager Sparks Change Through Art: The Inspiring Journey of Sasha Bogosian**

Sasha Bogosian, an 18-year-old from Los Angeles, has turned her passion for art into a life-changing initiative that supports children in similar circumstances to her own. After discovering the therapeutic power of painting during her recovery from a major leg surgery at the age of eight, Sasha has founded The Sasha Project LA, a nonprofit that has successfully raised nearly £100,000 for art therapy at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

Sasha’s journey began in 2016 when she was recovering from a surgery intended to improve her gait. Placing her in a cast from the ankle to the hip for three months, her mother, Isabell Bogosian, provided her with fabric paints and a pair of jeans to help keep her occupied. “My mum wanted to distract me from the discomfort,” Sasha recalled. As she painted, experimenting with various colours and designs, neither mother nor daughter could have anticipated the impact of that initial creative outlet.

Over the years, Sasha learned to channel her challenges into artistic expression, paving the way for her to create hundreds of unique denim pieces. Encouraged by friends who admired her work, she began to receive requests for custom designs, and it soon became clear that her artwork could be used for a greater cause. “Art helped me during difficult times, and I want to give other kids something fun and creative to do while they’re at the hospital,” she said.

During her numerous stays in the hospital, Sasha appreciated visits from art therapists, who introduced her to a variety of creative projects. This solidified her desire to provide similar opportunities for other young patients. Her motivation led her to join the Junior Ambassadors programme at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, where she aimed to raise money for the hospital’s art therapy initiatives. With the support of local media like NBC and backing from companies including Levi’s and Blick Art Materials, her project gained visibility and momentum.

In the wake of this growing interest, Sasha and her family officially established The Sasha Project LA, which has since benefitted from a series of partnerships with brands, including BILLY Footwear. Through these collaborations, she has also expanded her artistic repertoire to include shoes, handbags, and other accessories. “Art has been very rewarding for me, and I want to share it with other children,” Sasha noted, reflecting on her diverse creations.

Among Sasha’s proudest accomplishments was being named a National Champion for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in 2018, an experience that allowed her to connect with peers from across the United States, all sharing their stories of resilience. She also had the opportunity to participate in high-profile events like the Rock the Runway fashion show, showcasing her custom-painted denim alongside celebrities—a memory she cherishes.

Beyond fundraising, Sasha has dedicated her time to leading painting sessions at Handy Heroes, a camp tailored for children with cerebral palsy. This initiative not only allows her to help others, but it also connects her to her own experiences as a former camper. “I love being able to share my love of art with kids who are going through the same things I have,” she said, clearly passionate about inspiring the next generation.

Despite the challenges of balancing her high school studies and managing a nonprofit, Sasha remains committed to her dual pursuits. She dreams of studying fashion design at university and is currently working on her clothing brand, The Edit by Sasha, which aims to create stylish, comfortable clothing for all, including individuals with disabilities. “I think it’s important to make fashion inclusive for everyone,” she asserted.

Looking ahead, Sasha expresses her desire to further develop The Sasha Project LA and expand its influence to children’s hospitals nationwide. To those young women aspiring to make a difference in their communities, she has simple, yet profound advice: “Find something you love doing and use it to help others. You don’t have to start with something big. I began with my mum’s jeans, and it has led to unexpected and incredible outcomes.”

Sasha Bogosian’s story is a remarkable testament to the transformative power of art. Through dedication and creativity, she not only found healing for herself but also opened doors of possibility for countless children facing medical challenges. As she continues her journey, Sasha embodies the spirit of empathy and resilience, proving that even the smallest actions can lead to significant change.