Last week we held a morning tea for members of our crafting community to say ‘Thank You’ for the care and love they display everyday with their donations of teddies, blankets and quilts, for patients throughout Canberra Health Services. Maureen O’Brien, Palliative Care Clinical Nurse Consultant from the Community Care Program came along to address the community, and share stories about the impact of the donations.

"As you stitch, pin and click away, do you know you are giving of yourself and giving strength to the recipients of your craft?” said Maureen in a moving speech to our guests.

“It is clear to us nurses that the teddies, and other goods we receive, reflect facets of their creators’ unknown identity. We feel the love, kindness and strength in your work as we offer them to our clients."

There was not a dry eye in the house as Maureen went on to say, “Your blankets are a symbol of warmth and friendship. When nurses or carers wrap their loved ones in your blankets, it is a real statement of kindness and a demonstration of honour."

It is a privilege for us at the Foundation to play a small part in the process of getting the lovingly crafted donated items wrapped around the people who need comfort the most. We celebrate our Crafting Community, and are grateful for their kindness every single day!

With special thanks to Hellenic Club and Hobby Sew for supporting the morning tea, and Clinical Musician Alison Ware for sharing her beautiful music.