“Pillow Ladies” In 1998, volunteers from the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Guild began making “Heart Pillows” to meet the needs of patients recovering from cardiac surgery. This year, they made 600 pillows. The pillows, shaped like a heart, are used as part of therapy following cardiac surgery. Therapy may include coughing and breathing exercises to prevent fl uid build-up in the lungs. Holding the pillow braces the chest, protects the breastbone and supports the patient’s therapy of coughing exercises. The volunteers meet twice per month to sew, label and stuff the pillows. There are approximately 15 volunteers. The Guild
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purchases the pillow stuffi ng, while fabric is donated or purchased through Guild funds. The Guild also receives pillows, material and monetary donations from the public. “We are very thankful for all the help from the Guild, volunteers and MVHI for all of their support of the pillow group,” said Theresa Jadlowski, the group’s coordinator. This special group of volunteers meets regularly to provide the Medical Center with the benefi ts of its sewing talents – all working together to support our mission.
Thank you to all staff and volunteers who help to carry out the mission of our founding sisters.