To All Those Who Knit and Crochet,
Thank you for your time, effort, and contribution to the Androscoggin Home Healthcare + Hospice Comfort Shawl Program for our patients. As a new knitter for our organization, we want to share some important things about the Shawl Program.
First, we appreciate your creativity and special touch for the shawls that you put together. Shawls should be 58-60 inches long and 24 inches wide when completed. We want the patient to be able to wrap it around their shoulders comfortably so that they do not have to hold onto them to keep them on. The preference is for a rectangular pattern; however, we accept triangular shawls as long as they are 58” long at the longest edge. The best way to judge is to try it on to see if it is adequate in size.
Second, we are also asking volunteer knitters to follow the process listed below as outlined by our Occupational Health Nurse. This process follows standard health precautions and has been developed for the care and well-being of our patients.
- When you complete the shawl, place it in the dryer on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes.
- Place in a plastic bag and seal tightly.
- Attach your name and address to the bag.
- Drop off at the front desk of the office at 15 Strawberry Avenue, Lewiston.
A story was shared once from a nurse who gave a Comfort Shawl to her patient. The shawl was purple and the nurse told her that the volunteer had made it especially for her. The patient asked, “How did they know purple was my favorite color?” Your shawls bring smiles, comfort, and warmth to those who are facing the end of their lives. We look forward to continuing to share your beautiful gifts with our patients.
Sincerely,
Kathy Baillargeon
Manager of Volunteer Resources
