Care home residents at Moorgate Hollow care home in Rotherham have sent their families handmade knitted hearts and hand-written notes to let them know they’re thinking of them in lockdown.
The residents packaged up the hearts and included a note which said ‘Here I have two hearts, one for me that I will keep and one for you that you will keep so that we are forever together and never apart.’
The idea was brought to Moorgate Hollow by friend to the home and former manager, Bridget Cooper, as a way to reunite residents with their families at a time when they have been unable to physically visit the home.
Melvie Blank, 90, resident at Moorgate Hollow, said: “The handmade knitted hearts were such a lovely idea, and I’ve loved being able to send my family a little piece of me to treasure.
“It’s been hard not having visitors for a while but can’t wait for the feeling when we can finally reunite!”
Nancy Booth, daughter of Sheila Leeson, resident at Moorgate Hollow, said: “One morning my post was delivered, and I opened a large envelope expecting it to be some bunting that I had ordered. It wasn’t the bunting, it was a picture of my beautiful mum holding a crocheted heart to her chest, and another heart for me to keep. It was such a wonderful surprise! I was so touched by the heart, and the message from mum.
“It was such a thoughtful thing for Moorgate Hollow to do, yet typical of them. I am so grateful to all of them for the care and love that they give to Mum, they are all amazing. They do so much to keep us in touch with our loved ones, and I can’t thank them enough for the sacrifices they have made to keep the home safe.”
Leighann Peace, deputy home manager at Moorgate Hollow, said: “The idea to create the knitted hearts was fantastic, huge thanks to Bridget for sharing the idea with us! The residents had a great time doing it and the families have loved receiving them.”
Lyn Pilkington, home manager at Moorgate Hollow, said: “As a home, we understand the importance of maintaining contact between our residents and their families. Though the knitted hearts aren’t as good as a real cuddle, they certainly do the job for now and they have brought smiles to everyone’s faces!”
