A stitch in time to save lives …. Time to get knitting!
We are seeking handmade toys to include in our Children’s gift bags for children staying in hospital for extended periods. Soft knitted teddies in machine-washable wool are especially welcome.
Madeline Whitehead, a volunteer from East Sussex has been donating her homemade knitted items for the Children’s Cancer Recovery Project for over four years – She in an unsung hero no longer. Here is her story….
“I became involved with the Children’s Cancer Recovery Project a few years ago when I received a letter through the post enclosing a knitted hat. I thought if they need hats and other knitted items for the children’s Bear-Able Gift bags then I could help. I phoned the office and have been making knitted toys for the children for a few years now.
I have encouraged people at work to become involved by knitting tortoises, hedgehogs and teddies for the children.
Knitting for the children keeps me busy and gives me a deep sense of satisfaction.”
The Children’s Cancer Recovery project adds Madeline’s toys to the gift bags which we regularly send to hospitals and hospices throughout the UK. The gifts are really appreciated by the staff, children and parents.
Thank you for all your hard work Madeline – you are a star!
Join in the Fun
If like Madeline you fancy having a go at knitting some toys yourself why not try this simple Teddy pattern courtesy of our friends at Knit for Peace*. Knit for Peace has teamed up with Children’s Cancer Recovery Project to help recruit volunteers to make donated knitted teddies and finger puppets for our bags.
Or you can try a Hedgehog hand puppet, designed by Betty who kindly gave us permission to share it with other people wishing to make donations.
DOWNLOAD HOLLY THE HEDGEHOG PATTERN
Send all completed items to:
Linda Pearson, Cancer Recovery Foundation UK,
Garden Studios, 71-75 Shelton Street, London, WC2H 9JQ
* Knit for Peace is an initiative of the Charities Advisory Trust that encourages people from different, often historically hostile communities, to come together informally to knit (or sew or crochet). They have had success in different parts of the country and abroad (such as India, Afghanistan and Rwanda) and now are turning their attention to students in the UK. Visit www.knitforpeacecat.blogspot.com for more information.
Did You Know?
In the UK around 7 people in every 100,000 will develop oesophageal cancer.
Oesophageal cancer is not one of the most common cancers but it is one of the most preventable with scientists estimating that 75% of cases could be prevented through eating more non-starchy vegetables and fruits, by maintaining a healthy weight and drinking less alcohol.
Soundbites
"The bear-able gift bags have been fantastic. We use them for bravery awards and other things. They are just perfect. Please could you let me know when you will be doing them again." Vicki Belton, Play Specialist, Maidstone Hospital
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