Lodi Third Ward Relief Society sisters collaborated with Kaiser Hospital to knit or crochet small warm fuzzy blankets to be given to patients who have just a short time to live.Cathy Leonard organized the project (which will be ongoing) and Kaiser donated the yarn. The sisters work in their homes, some taking yarn and needles with them to work on a blanket while waiting in doctors' offices, etc. "It has been found that something warm and soft can give great comfort to a terminal patient," Cathy said.
Helen Sowers, 87, was the oldest participant who said, "I'm slow, but I'll get it done!" Peg Thawley, an elderly widow who lives alone enjoyed having a project that could fill some of the lonely hours of the day. She likes to be of service in the community. Sue Hafenstine was just learning to crochet and had to rip out her work three times, but never gave up.
This was a great public affairs service project: it let families of the patients hear about the Church, there was excellent coverage in the newspaper, and Kaiser made a display case that sits in the main lobby of the hospital. (See below.)
