Beanies brighten day for TUH oncology patients

St Margaret Mary’s College students have rolled up their sleeves, crocheting over 40 handmade beanies for patients in the oncology unit at Townsville University Hospital (TUH), donating to Brighter Lives Townsville Hospital Foundation. 

Students Chloe (year 12), Afsheen (year 8), and Iman (year 10) wanted to bring their handcrafted beanies and hats to patients in the oncology ward to bring some joy to the hospital. 

“It took eight weeks over the Christmas holidays to crochet all the beanies,” Chloe said. 

“They are all unique with each beanie taking about three days to complete and were made in every colour and style so that there was something for everyone.” 

Chloe said she had been working on a religion assignment at school focussed on meaning and purpose, with the visit shedding some light on what she had learnt so far. 

“You always want to leave the world a better place than you found it and I hope we had a part in that today.” 

Oncology unit patient Sally Cunningham is on a clinical trial for multiple myeloma and said having the students visit and gift her a beanie was special. 

“Kids are getting a bad rap these days, so it’s wonderful to see these students doing something good for others,” Sally said. 

“The girls are beautiful and I’m very happy, it made my day.” 

Patient Lloyd Stewart is often in and out of the oncology unit due to infections and said he loved his new beanie. 

“These visits are really cool for the patients, especially those that need to travel for treatment and might not have visitors,” Lloyd said. 

“Seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces certainly makes the day easier.” 

Student Iman said the beanie project began at the end of 2024 when she decided to go to her teacher to ask for yarn. 

“Crocheting and creating is a passion for me and being able to turn this passion into something useful and meaningful is great,” Iman said. 

“We are keen to do more to help the community and are going to make blankets and socks next for different parts of the hospital.” 

Brighter Lives Townsville Hospital Foundation Chief Executive Stephanie Naunton said the hospital was grateful for all donations big and small. 

“Having students like Chloe, Afsheen, and Iman think of those spending time in hospital and handcrafting beanies just for them is so meaningful,” Stephanie said. 

“If you’ve been inspired to follow in these girls’ footsteps, Brighter Lives always appreciates handcrafted donations of items such as knee blankets, larger blankets and toys.” 

Reach out if you would like to donate to the Townsville Hospital through the Brighter Lives website - Give | Brighter Lives