| WARE — Sewing machines hum and scissors work feverishly when members of the Baystate Mary Lane Hospital Quilting Support Group meet at the hospital. Soon their efforts will reflect personal stories and the passion of the group as its members work together to assemble several quilts, which will be donated to provide comfort to community members undergoing cancer treatment.Tina Bessette, Cynthia Obrzut, Mary Cote, and Jane Agnew have volunteered countless hours making the colorful quilts. “Cancer has touched us all in so many ways, and sharing the company and camaraderie of this support group has helped us all heal,” said Agnew. Amid the Log Cabin and Crazy Quilt designs, the group members work thoughtfully as they construct the quilt blocks while other members line and finish the quilts. Each complete piece reflects a personal story of how their lives have been touched by cancer.
Last September, the group formed to offer quilts to provide comfort those touched by cancer. The group facilitator, Claudia Benoit, oncology social worker, continues the work in memory of patient, friend, and avid quilter Judith Samson.
Nancy Price, supervisor of the Baystate Regional Cancer Program at Mary Lane Hospital, said that “these quilts are a reflection of the life and times of the members who attend the Quilting Support Group and the journey they have made personally or with a loved one. It is an inspiration to see people who have been touched by cancer reach out to others and find healing. Many new friendships have formed as the members find comfort and happiness in the work they accomplish together.”
“Quilting experience is not necessary to participate in this free support group,” added Benoit. “It is designed for cancer patients, survivors, families, and friends to provide a forum where they can enjoy quilting as they receive support, find comfort, and share encouragement with each other. We invite community members to join us.”
The Quilting Support Group for those touched by cancer meets the first and third Tuesday of each month from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the Community Health Information Center Conference Room, located on the first floor of the hospital. For more information, contact Benoit at (413) 967-2245. |
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