For Shona, every stitch carries a story of care, comfort and connection. As a volunteer knitter for Wellington Hospitals Foundation, she understands better than most the power a simple hand knitted garment can hold.
Years ago, Shona experienced the devastating loss of her precious baby. Amid her grief, a small hand knitted outfit offered an unexpected moment of solace.
Words can barely describe the powerful gratitude I felt when I was able to provide a garment to my wee baby. My thoughts constantly turned to the kindness of the person who made it, and how that simple act brought comfort in my time of grief.
Now, as a volunteer herself, Shona gives that same comfort to others.
Knitting, she says, has been a therapeutic outlet, especially during a difficult period five years ago when recovering from a leg injury. It helped calm her mind and restore her spirit. But knitting for the hospital means even more.
I love creating something beautiful and useful. The camaraderie with other knitters is special, and I’m always learning something new. But most of all, I love that each garment brings warmth and care to someone who needs it.
Volunteer knitters provide baby clothing for premature newborns, start-up packs for new mums, garments for sale in the hospital shop and tiny outfits for babies who have passed away.
That ball of wool travels many journeys. It brings people together - to knit, to talk, to share, to laugh. It helps our older community feel connected and valued. In a world that sometimes forgets its elders, this is a chance to contribute something meaningful.
To find out more, email our friendly team at volunteer@whf.org.nz