On May 16th the Gwinnett Quilters Guild held their annual “Quilt Celebration” to culminate their community service project called, “JUST FOR YOU.”
Rev. Kathy McFarland, Associate Pastor of the Cannon Methodist Church offered a moving prayer for the young patients who would receive this years’ donation of the 389 beautiful and colorful quilts which were displayed in the church’s sanctuary.
The 155 member guild every year creates quilts for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The project started in 2002 with 90 quilts, and to date 4621 quilts have been donated to “comfort and encourage hospitalized children and their families” which is the project’s purpose and goal.
Speaker Olivia Hawkins with son Dane and co-chairs of Just For You – Sybil Lancour (L) and Joan Beattie (R)
The mother of one of last years’ recipients, Mrs. Olivia Hawkins, spoke of the emotional impact on her then 2 year old son Dane after he had received a quilt. Last October, just before he was transported via ambulance from CHOA in Cumming to Scottish Rite in ATL, Dane was immediately calmed as he snuggled under the soft “Cat in the Hat” quilt which was made by Guild member Jeanne Fanning.
Graciously returning to speak was Mrs. Lisa Kinsel, Manager of Volunteer Services at CHOA and their “Canines for Kids” program. She was accompanied by her beautiful 9 year old Golden Retriever Casper. He was the first of now 12 full-time certified service dogs on staff. A video was shown to further explain the healing benefits dogs have on hospitalized patients. Casper delighted and charmed the Guild members with his unique form of joy.
Pictured right: 389 quilts displayed in sanctuary of Cannon Methodist Church
