Quilting for good causes

Cambridge Quilters supports a small number of local initiatives for those in need. For many years we have created quilts for the neo-natal unit (NICU) at the Rosie, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge. So far we have delivered 12,000 quilts. 

From time to time, the group also makes heart shaped breast care cushions, drainage bags and Christmas stockings.  The work began when member, Marie MacBean, was approached by a nurse from the Special Care Baby Unit to ask if CQ would like to make cot quilts for them. The quilts are used on the ward and parents can choose a quilt to take home. 

Initially, only members of CQ made quilts but over time, other small groups in Barton Mills, Saffron Walden, Orwell and Judy Challis' group have contributed so many fabulous quilts.  The group continues to raise money to purchase wadding and fabric

Comments from parents who received cot quilts

"Thank you so much for such a beautiful Peter Rabbit quilt. I love the idea that it keeps our baby warm when we are not there and reassures him. " C

"Thank you so much for this lovely blanket! Our son was in special care for a couple of days and it's lovely that you have given this at such an emotional time. We will keep this and treasure it".  C

"Coming into intensive care has been the scariest moment of my life.  However, the support we have received has been amazing and that includes people in your group who give up your time to donate cot quilts". B

"Thankyou for your wonderful quilts- they add such a personal touch to what otherwise could be a very sterile environment. Your lovely quilts bring a touch of home and definitely made us feel more relaxed. They were particularly useful for us as our daughter arrived so early that we literally hadn't bought anything! I'm sure everyone appreciates your kind gifts-please keep going." R and G

From Lady P, receiver of a heart shaped breast cushion

"I cannot tell you how much comfort your pillow has been to me. Please pass on my thanks to your lovely group."     

We also make drainage bags for Addenbrookes                                                                   

A message via social media: "Hello I'm unsure where to send my thank yous, but wanted to say Cambridge quilters have made a huge difference. I've just had a double mastectomy and I was gifted from the breast unit x2 drain bags which have made my life currently just that little bit easier. I've also worked many years as a nurse on NICU/SCBU and can't say enough thank yous for the quilts that get made for the babies we look after. Many thanks C.  x" 

Special day when members came together to make cot quilts. Some of the finished quilts at Great Wilbraham Village Hall.