Pediatric Pillowcase Project

My husband, Keith, is about to start his second year of residency at Chris Everet Children's Hospital here in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. As part of his residency, he does shifts on the pediatric hematology/oncology unit. He says it's absolutely the most rewarding and depressing part of his job. Getting to discharge patients home, after what can be hundreds of days in a hospital bed, is a big high. Ever since he started working at the hospital, he definitely hugs Lia tighter at the end of the day. Things like being a picky eater are no longer issues he dwells on. Someone's baby is getting an awful diagnosis right now, who cares if Lia only wants to eat chicken nuggets. 

Inspired by his admiration of these no limit soldiers, I wanted to do something... anything. I was making Lia a pillow case and I had a lightbulb moment. Pillowcases would be perfect for the kids! They're so easy to make, and so personalizable. 

I emailed the Child Life coordinator at the hospital and asked her if they would accept the donation and they were so excited. Also worth noting, Child Life specialists are little angels on Earth. They mentioned character fabrics were a big hit. A lot of these children are chronic, so they know to prepare for little Sarah who LOVES Frozen. That's how awesome they are, they know these things about other people's kids. 

A quick search on Pinterest yielded many tutorials. I used 1 yard of fabric per case and stuck with flannel material. It's so cozy! I tried to make a ton of characters, but I also thought about how a lot of teenagers would probably be patients.

Joann's had an awesome selection of fannel! So many beautiful designs. Also, the flannel prints go on sale at Joann's and get down to about $2.70 a yard! 

I did my initial batch of 17 pillowcases. Then, I told my Grandma and my Mother In-Law about my project and they helped me take it to the next level. My Grandma's BFF Eileen and my MIL donated me 30 yards of fabric!!!!! So my second batch was 42 pillowcases. The hem/onc unit has about 20 beds, which thankfully aren't usually full. 

I'd absolutely love to have the funding to keep up these donations. So if you'd like to donate fabric, gift cards, or completed pillowcases, email me (jade.beckman3@gmail.com) I can even get you in touch with Chris Everet Children's so you can donate directly to them. 

I have to warn you, if you consider that there will be tears shed into these pillowcases, you will also cry. But just remember, for a moment while they receive the pillowcase, they will smile. Even a fleeting moment of happiness is worth it. Nobody should have to go through cancer.