My name is Carol, and I have been crocheting for more than 50 years. I first picked it up when I was pregnant with my youngest daughter because I wanted to quit smoking and needed something to keep my hands busy. My mother tried to teach me, but I could not quite get the hang of it. I bought a book and taught myself how to crochet and knit. From there, it became part of my life. 

Crocheting has been my companion through every stage of life. When my children were little, I made Afghans, the large, cozy blankets that kept them warm, along with sweaters and doll clothes. Later, when grandchildren came along, I made sure each of my 14 had something made with my own hands. Now, I do the same for my great-grandchildren. Not all of them have a big Afghan, but each has a blanket or small piece stitched with care. There is a deep satisfaction in giving something you created yourself. Every row holds time, patience and love, and when I hand it to my family, I feel like I am passing on a piece of myself. 

This craft is something I share with two of my daughters, Joyce, my oldest, and my youngest. With Joyce, it has become a bond we still hold today. We often sit together and crochet, talking as our hands keep busy. Over the years, we have made pieces for Christmas markets, and most recently, blankets for the Hearts and Hands Conference. When SafeCare asked if we would contribute, we said yes right away. We did not have a project on the go, and we both knew this would mean something. 

These blankets are going to healthcare assistants, which makes me proud. They are the people who step in the moment you need them. They make this place feel safe. I could not have picked a better place to live than here at the Emerald. The staff are kind, the community is close, and I have made good friends here. Every Monday afternoon we gather to knit and crochet. We each work on our own projects, but it feels good to create together. 

Making these blankets has given me purpose. Care workers give so much of themselves every single day, often without being noticed the way they should be. This is my way of saying thank you. Every stitch carries a piece of my story and my gratitude. My hope is that when they wrap themselves in these blankets, they feel more than warmth. I hope they feel seen, appreciated and loved.