The Canberra Knitters Guild continues to spread warmth across the region, and their work serves as a testament to how small acts of kindness can make a big impact.
Dialysis is a lifeline for patients at the Cooma Renal Unit, but it often requires them to sit still for up to five hours, three times a week. Dialysis often makes patients feel cold due to cooler dialysate, immobility, fluid removal, anaemia, and cool clinical environments. The process can be uncomfortable, especially with one arm exposed for needle access, leaving many patients feeling cold.
The solution to this chilly dilemma arrived with a patient from the Bega Renal Unit wearing a knitted arm warmer. The simple design provided warmth and comfort while keeping the needle site visible—a practical solution that quickly caught the attention of the team.
Patients and staff from Cooma Hospital's Renal Unit with the donated arm warmers.
Inspired, the Cooma team knew they had to explore this thoughtful design further, and tracked down a “mud map” of the knitting pattern from Bega.
Renal Nurse Kylie Chenery reached out to Ruth Oldfield from the Canberra Knitters Guild, a group known for their generosity and talent. The group had provided blankets to the Cooma Community Health last year to distribute in the community.
When asked if they could help, Ruth quickly responded: “Ask and you shall receive! How many would you like and by when?”
Soon after, the Guild delivered 15 beautifully knitted arm warmers and 7 cozy blankets to the Renal Unit. Each item was crafted with care and attention, bringing a touch of warmth and comfort to the patients.
“These gifts make such a difference,” said Cooma Renal Nurse Unit Manager, Lynn Nichols. “We are incredibly grateful to Ruth and the Canberra Knitters Guild. Their kindness and effort have brought so much comfort to our patients.”
For patients at the Cooma Renal Unit, these thoughtful donations are a symbol of care and connection that brightens their challenging journey.
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