Two years ago, I discovered an unfilled need in my community. Two of my children experienced health issues and underwent several surgeries. During that time, they were given blankets and toys that brought them comfort. Those small gestures made a lasting impression on me.
When things settled down, I reached out to the hospital to give back — hoping to provide the same comfort my children had received. I learned that the pediatric department already had plenty of donations, but there was nothing similar for adult patients. In that moment, I knew where I was needed. That’s when I founded Knitting It Together, a nonprofit organization that creates and donates blankets, shawls, and hats to adult cancer patients. Each item is handmade — knit, crocheted, quilted, sewn, or tied fleece — and includes a note reminding the recipient that they are strong, loved, and not alone.
As an avid knitter and crafter, I’ve always found joy in creating things by hand. I belong to a knitting circle at my local library, and many members make beautiful items to donate. I also collaborate with Girl Scout troops, women’s groups, National Honor Societies, and local corporations such as Glanbia and Leopardo Construction to host blanket-making events. It’s inspiring to see so many people come together — from young students to experienced crafters — all working toward the same goal of bringing warmth and comfort to others.
I run Knitting It Together out of my home in Western Springs, Illinois. I’m a nurse and a mom of four boys, ages 15, 13, 9, and 6. This work is close to my heart. It brings me joy to give back and to show my children the importance of compassion and service. My goal is to continue expanding Knitting It Together to reach more hospitals, infusion centers, and cancer support organizations across the region.
What began as one mother’s effort to give back has grown into a community movement — proving that a handmade blanket, stitched with love, can bring warmth far beyond its threads.
When things settled down, I reached out to the hospital to give back — hoping to provide the same comfort my children had received. I learned that the pediatric department already had plenty of donations, but there was nothing similar for adult patients. In that moment, I knew where I was needed. That’s when I founded Knitting It Together, a nonprofit organization that creates and donates blankets, shawls, and hats to adult cancer patients. Each item is handmade — knit, crocheted, quilted, sewn, or tied fleece — and includes a note reminding the recipient that they are strong, loved, and not alone.
As an avid knitter and crafter, I’ve always found joy in creating things by hand. I belong to a knitting circle at my local library, and many members make beautiful items to donate. I also collaborate with Girl Scout troops, women’s groups, National Honor Societies, and local corporations such as Glanbia and Leopardo Construction to host blanket-making events. It’s inspiring to see so many people come together — from young students to experienced crafters — all working toward the same goal of bringing warmth and comfort to others.
I run Knitting It Together out of my home in Western Springs, Illinois. I’m a nurse and a mom of four boys, ages 15, 13, 9, and 6. This work is close to my heart. It brings me joy to give back and to show my children the importance of compassion and service. My goal is to continue expanding Knitting It Together to reach more hospitals, infusion centers, and cancer support organizations across the region.
What began as one mother’s effort to give back has grown into a community movement — proving that a handmade blanket, stitched with love, can bring warmth far beyond its threads.
