Meet the Makers

Over at Bendigo Bank House, Annette and Kim delivered 50 handmade quilts to help bring kids on a journey of recovery in the McKellar Kids’ Rehab service some comfort.

The quilting began four years ago when the pair learnt of our $3.6 million Kids Appeal for a dedicated kids rehab facility through their workplace, Bendigo Bank.

The hospital setting is designed for function, efficiency and infection prevention so these soft and colourful, knitted blankets, teddy bears and cushions all help to make the patients feel more at home during their stay.

Locals of all ages and illnesses have benefited from the kindness of strangers who spend hours handcrafting these wares.

Eileen, a resident of Barwon Health’s Alan David Lodge, has donated 77 knitted blankets (and counting) for babies in University Hospital Geelong’s Special Care Nursery.

She started the project 18 months ago after incurring troubles with her vision, which left her near blind.

When her vision returned, she wanted to give back and keep busy. Each blanket, she said, can take anywhere between 3 days and a week.

When asked if she has a favourite colour or design she said, “it’s usually the next one I’m thinking about making”.

They assembled a group - Gayle, Cynthia, Lauren and Jill - and began stitching, supported by the Dutch Association which helped to buy materials.

Meanwhile, Jeanette, of the Mereburn CWA Branch, is another frequent donor who gifts perfectly made cushions – 90 of them so far - for heart surgery patients.

Patients hold the pillows tightly against their chest to provide an extra layer of pressure and comfort, and help counteract any jolting from a cough, sneeze or movement.

The final maker we would like to highlight is the always humble Denyse from Clifton Springs who regularly drops off bags of gorgeous handmade teddy bears for children on the University Hospital Geelong Kids Ward who might need some comfort.

Thank you to all those who spend their time helping to enhance the comfort of patients at Barwon Health.

If you wish to donate goods, you can visit the Barwon Health Foundation office at 283 Ryrie Street, Geelong, 9am-5pm Monday – Friday.