Transcending Loss Through a Knitting Project
Belinda Maxwell recalls with fondness the year she spent as a caregiver for her mother-in-law Donna, and in particular Donna’s assiduous work on knitted squares. Eventually, when Donna’s disease progressed past the point where she could live safely at home, Belinda and her family researched carefully before deciding on Brookside at Cross Keys Village.
A box of almost 100 knitted squares in various colors did not make the move with her… but Donna’s love for knitting made the transition unimpaired. As it happens, the Knitting Group, a dedicated group of Cross Keys volunteers, visits Brookside every week. Their presence helped sustain the beloved hobby at the center of Donna’s new life. “Donna was always so nice to work with when we would visit with knitting crafts,” says villager Ruth Ann Culp, a regular Brookside volunteer and member of the Knitting Group.
After Donna passed away earlier this year, Belinda asked the Knitting Group whether it would be possible to help create afghans for three of Donna’s grandchildren, using her “old” box of knitted squares. The Knitting Group got to work immediately. “The turnaround time was so fast,” marvels Belinda. Ruth Ann remembers, “When the family asked if we could create them, it thrilled us to be able to do something to give back.” “That’s why I’m there. It makes me feel good to be able to help someone else.”
