2/03/2016 – Update:
So this is crazy! I have been getting so many views of this post coming over from Pinterest! Thank you for coming by and for all the good you are doing for your friends, family, strangers – or maybe even for yourself. Hugs all around!
With so much traffic to this blog post, I’ve decided to update a couple of things – some thanks to the suggestions of readers. So – anything you see in this color is an addition or change to the original post.
And just so you know – I had a CT scan recently and there was no visible sign of cancer. I’ll be celebrating my 2nd birthday (stem cell transplant anniversary) on 2/12.
Enough hair for a little trim!
I’ve been neglecting this space again! Jana Last even included my last post – Mom’s recipe for Blender Custard Pie – in her Fab Finds. A week ago! I didn’t realize it until today.
I usually post family recipes on Friday, but today will be a different kind of recipe. Not really a recipe – I’m fudging cheating. It’s a pattern.
If you are a frequent visitor, you know that I had a stem cell transplant on February 12th – my new birthday. That makes me 7 months old today!
On August 12, my six month new birthday, I celebrated by taking snacks and portacath pillows to the infusion (chemo) room where I received six rounds of chemo from Sept.- Dec.
On my first day of chemo I was scared and apprehensive. A friend texted me after a couple of hours and asked how it was going.
My answer to her: It is strangely pleasant here.
Cancer free! 12/13
And it was. My nurse, Emily, took such good care of me, patiently explaining everything and making sure that I was comfortable. The woman across from me had a friend with her and they were playing cards and laughing. They wanted a picture taken with Emily, so I suggested my husband take it. 🙂 There was a volunteer in the room who came around every so often and offered to get water, coffee, or a snack for my husband and me. It was so nice to be looked out for in that way.
Hours spent in the chemo room were mostly pleasant and I always had wonderful nurses and the best of care. But there was never a volunteer with snacks on any of the other days. 🙁
Now that I am able to be on the giving side of cancer, I decided that, once I felt up to it, I would spend some time in the infusion room and try to return just a bit of the goodness that I had received there. I’m not up for doing this on a regular basis, but I decided that I could do something once a month to celebrate on the anniversaries of my transplant.
Now let me tell you about those pillows, as they are the main point of this post….
In the infusion room, there was a basket that held hats that had been sewn or knitted or crocheted by volunteers and were free for the taking. Friends who had been cancer patients told me to look for the basket and to find a hat to wear to bed because my head would get cold at night. (They were right!) I found a hat I sort of liked …. (I’m not much for turban-style pink hats that scream CANCER), but it was just the right weight – not too heavy and thick – a nice, soft fabric for a sleeping cap.
my pillow
The other thing I found in the basket – and there was only one – was a portacath pillow. There was a note with it saying that it had been made by a woman in her 80s who is a cancer survivor and her daughter is a cancer survivor. It even had her address so I could send her a note of thanks. 🙂
Many cancer patients have a power port or a portacath “installed” under the skin a couple of inches below the collar bone. You know – right where a seat belt will fit perfectly over it, pressing firmly to make it just a bit uncomfortable. This great little pillow attaches to your seatbelt and holds it off of your port. I prefer to have the pillow higher than my port as I find that if it is right over the port it still puts pressure on it.
I used the pillow I took from the basket as my pattern and made 31 for the infusion room last month. There were none in the basket today. Time to make more! I’m sharing my directions with you, in case you would like to join me.
A friend helped me pick out the gold fabric off the discount table at the fabric store, noting that is is gender neutral. What smart friends I have! I made some from denim I had on hand, but they take longer to make because of the little bit of hand sewing. It’s dense and hard to poke a needle through, so I don’t recommend denim or old jeans unless you are only making one or two or have special denim super powers. Just plain old odds and ends of poly/cotton or cotton or muslin will work fine. (At first I hesitated to suggest fleece because I was afraid it might cause a little shock from static electricity during cold weather. I tried one out a couple of times and didn’t have a problem, so I think it’s ok after all. Fleece sews up easily too.) Feel free to alter as you like. The pillow I have is just a little bigger than the ones I made.
What you need:
Enough fabric for two 7-x-4-inch rectangles.
Velcro – the sew-on kind, not with sticky backing. I used 5/8-inch width.
Fiber fill stuffing
thread
A word about velcro. One time I picked up several packages of velcro in a variety of colors and thought it was so great to have more color options. But – the velcro backing was very stiff and I didn’t really like it. I even cut rounded corners because I didn’t want it poking people. I don’t have a package to tell you a brand, but I bought it at Hobby Lobby. Last time I bought velcro I saw that some are labeled by how stiff or flexible they are.
Cut two 7-x-4-inch pieces of fabric.
Cut Velcro to 4-inch strip. (It has been suggested that a 3.5 inch strip is so much easier to sew. Duh!! And it should not cause a problem with snagging clothes because the little bit of velcro that will be exposed will be facing AWAY from clothes – not toward them.) Machine baste one side of Velcro to right side of fabric – fuzzy/loopy side up. Stitch only one end of Velcro, leaving the other end free.
Baste other half of Velcro strip to opposite side of fabric – loopy side down.
Put fabric pieces right sides together and make 1/4-inch seam all the way around, leaving an opening about 1 1/2 – 2 inches at one end. Be sure not to catch the “free” ends of the Velcro pieces in the seam. (See above. If you cut your pieces to 3.5, you won’t have to worry about catching the free end.)
Turn right side out and stuff.
Whip stitch opening to finish. Ta Da!
These are great to do assembly-line style, if you want to make more than one or two.
I look forward to celebrating many more 12ths of the month and practicing this small act of gratitude.
And if you are the praying kind, join me today in offering a prayer of thanks for doctors, nurses, researchers and modern medicine, and for those receiving treatment today and those caring for them.
How kind of you to make these pillows! I hope you are doing well Kathy. Please take care of yourself.
Thanks, Jana. I am doing well! I have received much – and so there is much to give back.
Mary Ducsay do these fit little ones
Please don’t put anything between a baby’s or child’s seatbelt and the baby. Their harnesses/seatbelts need to fit properly. They shouldn’t even wear puffy jackets in the car, a little pillow on the seatbelt wouldn’t be safe either.
not for babies for cancer patients- please read and dont assume you know what this is.
Little ones?
Thank You so much for this
Idea….being a Cancer Survivor and still fighting thought this a great idea and will be mami g these to help out others
How WONDERFUL, Isn’t it AMAZING what a little care for our fellow human beings can do! I have never had cancer THANK GOD but I do have several other life altering conditions….one since birth. Several in my family have passed from cancer or had cancer…..my Mom was a Nurse and passed from pancreatic cancer. II love to craft….and save Animals…..WONDERFUL things I learned from her.Because of her…I now have my dream…I have a sanctuary/ rescue of my own…and I sell crafts to help care for the animals. On occasion…when I can afford it….I practice something myDaddy taught me…KINDNESS…and we do little projects to help our fellow “ human “ animals too…. making these for SURVIVORS will be that! Plus it will be fun to tell the quilting group I will be joining….all but me are master quilters….to join in too.TY for being a WONDERFUL HUMAN….and CONGRATULATIONS ON BEING A STRONG SURVIVOR
May God bless you my name is Sheila I would like to make some for the many people suffering from Cancers patients I am heaving. a problem finding the beads Once again I want to help your kindness for others like Jesus said Jesus other than Your Self in the meantime be blessed Shebur18@gmail.com
Shellie, I am appy to make as many as I can. I have plenty if thread and poly fill so Im good to do. I just need an address and contact person please. God Bless you and thank you for your help.
Sincerely,
Debbie
Contact your local cancer treatment center or hospital.
Thank you so much for sharing,and God Bless . I do allot of sewing ,what a way to use up all those pieces.
I would think these would work for pacemaker people, as well
Ladies, I wish I had known (or thought) of these little pillows when my husband was still here. Such a wonderful idea. You are all so kind hearted. Thank you ladies.
I just cut out 20 of them getting ready to sew them so I can take them to the hospital for cancer patients and also I made one for myself since I have a pacemaker and the seatbelt does put pressure on it so thank you for posting how to make these wonderful little gems.
Had the same thought. Have had a pacemaker for 9 years and sure could have used one of these at first and even now.
Would it work for Dialysis patients
I was thinking the same thing. My hubby has a dialysis port just under his left collar bone and the seat belt crosses over it. Bet it would work.
Thank you so much for the pattern ,! I’m from Zimbabwe Africa and my niece has lymphoma cancer ………in the process of all the bone marrow \ blood transfusions CT scans etc! Not sure what stage,! We all praying she still had time to have chemo etc she is 33 with ,1 yr old 7 and 8 yes! So encouraging to read posts where fok are in remission! I’ve lost so many family to cancer! Thank you for caring! Blessings from Helen
thank you so….so much for this pattern. I just made quickly two pillows for my sister. What a thoughtful pattern.
I hope you are doing well, thank you for posting this. My grandpa has a portacath and is undergoing chemo for leukemia. I am going to make some of these to take to his cancer center! Best and warmest wishes!
I am doing well, thank you. I’m sure your grandpa will appreciate the pillow. Wishing him the best during treatment and the restoration of his health.
Hi Jana,
Hope you are still doing well. I too am a cancer survivor but LORD willing did not need chemo. What a wonderful idea to pay it forward. Thanks
Paula, I am a 4 yr BC survivor, not needing rad/chemo either. W/ invasive ductal, i did have a dbl masect. I experience some ‘survivor guilt’ because I feel I skated through it. Charity sewing for the Children’s hospital and group sew chemo hats helps me feel I’m contributing.
Thank you so much for your post, I hope this finds you doing well. My Mother gets her port in tomorrow so I hurried up and made one, not the best but I made it with I had. Make a better one later and some for the Chemo unit. Prayers to you and your family
Oh, Janet – my best to your mom! I hope the little pillow makes it a little more comfortable for her. Family and friends are the best medicine! (Plus chocolate and funny movies!) 🙂
Kathy,
What a great idea to help in even a small (but important) way! My sister began chemo today and I am putting together some things to help. Thank you for sharing and so glad to hear you are doing so well! Best wishes to you!
Carol
Carol, those little things people put together for me were so welcome and helpful! I’m sure your sister will really appreciate it. Hoping treatment goes well for her!
Thank you for this. I was looking for a chemo quilt pattern and saw this! Going to make a couple for my friend! Will try n make some to donate to our hospitals!
You are welcome!
Kathy; I want to thank you for the pattern it is greatly appreciated. I have a daughter going through
chemo treatments that she just started this past week on Dec 31st 2015 I will also try and make extras for other patients. Pat Jan 3rd 2016
My best to your daughter, Pat. I know it must be hard for you as well. I’m glad you found this helpful.
You’re a gem. Wishing you continued good health. It’s so nice when great ideas are shared- Bless you and your beautiful heart!
Thanks, Brenda! It is amazing that there are so many visits to this page. I didn’t really consider that it would be picked up on so many Pinterest boards. 🙂
Thank you for this post… I’ve been wanting to do something for the cancer center where I live and this will be perfect. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in June of 2015. I only had to have radiation so I Praise the Lord for that but I wanted to give back in some way so this will be perfect. I am also considering doing volunteer work there as I know there is a need. Again thank you and I pray all is going well for you…
I understand the desire to give back! All is going well for me – and I hope for you also!
What a beautiful way to give back! I want to make some for nearby hospitals. We have 3 cancer survivors in our small church. This is an awesome idea. Bless you!
I’m sure it will be greatly appreciated!
Our Circle at my church has been making these pillows however, we have had problems about how much stuffing to put in them. One person thinks they should be REAL thin, the rest of us disagree. Can you tell me measurement of stuffed pillow, the height. Maybe this will help solve our problem
Thanks for making the pillows! I just pulled out a ruler and laid a couple on the counter … looks like mine are about 1 1/2, some are 1/34 thick. The thicker ones tend to be made from fleece, which may account for the additional thickness. My pillows squish when you squeeze them (not hard packed) and are thick enough to deal with the pressure of the seatbelt. I prefer not to place the pillow directly over the port as it can still put pressure. Instead, I place it a little higher than the port and the pillow holds the seatbelt off of the port. I hope this helps.
I’m so glad to read your article
And glad to here you’re doing well. These are a great idea. I work at a cancer hospital. I crochet hats, but can only produce so many in a short period of time.
I’ve been looking for a project I can mass produce so I can give to many more patients. Thank you so much, may you continue to be blessed by God😀
I offered up a prayer for all those on the cancer journey and and a special prayer of gratitude for you and your post!! I am a Family & Consumer Science Teacher and am always looking for meaningful service projects for my students to do! I do believe this is one I will be implementing!!! Thank you again!! And I am glad your health has been restored! My mother & sister are both cancer survivors!!??
Thank you for your prayers! I am doing well. I had a CT scan on 1/20 and everything was clear! I love your idea of using this as a service project for your students.
Love this idea. I had the same problem when I had a port. Think this is something my Girl Scout troop could do. They loved when we taught them how to sew their patches on and make Christmas stocking fora service project.
I’m inspired by your story. I hope to open a center one day that will use crafts, done by people dealing with chronic stress, to solve small or large issues for others- whether it is cards for the homeless to let someone know they are still alive or port pillows or bags for walkers,wheelchairs or a painting for someone who needs to know someone cares about them.
I will keep this project in mind as one of the things people can do for others. Some of us are moved to save whales, others to feed the starving, etc. While my heart is not specifically called to cancer patients, I do hope that some of the people I will work with are and will be inspired to make these.
I am glad you are doing well, as of your latest comment that I see here. Your post has reached a lot of people already and I pray that God rewards you for sharing this so the gift of these pillows so people in other places can make them also.
What a wonderful idea you have. I am sure many will be blessed in giving and in receiving. Thank you for your kind comments.
Oh Kathy, it’s the little gifts of kindness when we are most vulnerable that mean so much! My Dad passed away over 20 yrs ago. He had a port but I never knew they could be so uncomfortable even with a seatbelt. I wish I knew ….wish I could have made one for him. I will make some and donate them to an infusion center. Thanks for opening my eyes.
It is the little things! Sometimes people think that just sending a card isn’t much, but I found that a card here, a text there, a pot of soup … any small kindness … all added up to make something big and wonderful. I am sure you did all that you could for your father and did it with love. And that was enough. <3
I ran across this pin just before I sat down to write notes to go with Prayer Shawls at my church. I will need to make some. Thank you!!
You are welcome, Brenda. Prayer shawls are a special ministry. I was blessed to receive one.
I just had a port put in and have noticed the seatbelt issue. I am making one for myself first and plan to make several for the chemo center where I am receiving treatment. I’ve already had one treatment and tolerated it well, and so far still have hair.
Thanks so much for this idea!
Glad your first treatment went well! I didn’t lose my hair until after the 3rd or 4th one, although the nurses thought it would be sooner. Sending you a virtual hug and healing thoughts.
Dear Kathy, I pray that you are continuing to do well! Thanks so much for sharing this pattern and idea! I am a 10+ year breast cancer survivor – praise the Lord! – and this idea is amazing! We have started a ministry at our church that creates items like this as a service to local organizations and I can hardly wait to share this one! I’m sure many will be “comforted” by these precious port pillows! Even though I never had one when I had my port, I am excited about being able to bless others!
Amazed by His Grace, Amy
Amy – how wonderful that you have surpassed the 10 year mark! I’ve almost got two down – 2nd anniversary of my stem cell transplant coming up in less than 3 weeks. I just had a CT scan and everything was clear. Thank you for wanting to share this idea with others.
Hi Kathy,
What do you stuff your pillows with? There are so many options in the stores nowadays!
I lost my husband to prostate cancer in ’98. He never had chemo–already metastasized at diagnosis. I have a good friend undergoing chemo now and I’ll make some of your sweet pillows for her and her chemo friends.
So glad you’re alive!
Jan in NE Ohio
Hi Jan. I just use regular old polyester fiber fill.
Thank you! I am glad to be alive! It makes every day a good day. I hope your friend does well with her treatment!
I got cheaper polifil-it didn’t work-like covering a brick with padding…no spring, no softness. I use the best premium polyfil even though it is expensive it washes & dries well, keeping it’s quality. On sale I get 10lb boxes for $25.00 in WalMart. Don’t skimp on quality-patients will appreciate your extra effort!
Doreen, NJ
Hi I found out a few months ago my Best Friend has Cancer, she will gettingher first Round of Chemo, what can I do to help her?
Hi Darlene,
Don’t feel that you have to do anything “big” – just offer what you can. And do NOT expect your friend to call and ask you to do something. I know I just hated picking up the phone to call people – although I enjoyed talking when someone called me. So, instead of saying, “call if you need something,” it is better to say, “I’d like to bring you some soup tomorrow, is that ok?” Or “I am free on Mondays if you need a ride somewhere.” Or suggest watching a funny movie together or doing something you both enjoy …
One of the first things someone did for me (that I didn’t even know I wanted) was to set up a CaringBridge page for me. This turned out to be a great help and something I might not have done for myself. Responding to emails and messages and calls from everyone wanting to know how you are doing is just overwhelming. CaringBridge allowed me to write one thing that everyone who was interested could read. They could also leave me messages of encouragement and there is a calendar function where you can post things that you need – transportation to a doctor’s appointment, meals, and errand you need to run… Or – if your friend doesn’t want to do that, maybe you could offer to be a point of contact for mutual friends so she doesn’t have to do it all herself.
I enjoyed having someone stay with me during chemo – but everyone is different. Offer, if you feel comfortable, and let her decide.
But whatever you do will be appreciated and don’t feel that you need to do more, more more. Little things add up to big things. Just keep being her friend.
Maybe I’ll do a post later about some of the things that people did for me.
I just want to add-it is such a great feeling to give even a smidgen of comfort through making some little thing for a patient-even ones you don’t know. My friend got diagnosed with breast cancer in May and it has been overwhelming. she asked me to make a pillow for under her arm to ease the pain of biopsies. It has been my joy-because of her one request-the Lord gave me a ministry of making them for two hospitals and people I don’t even know. I was going through extreme grief of my grandson’s death last Dec.2nd at the age of 18. So, remember, there is always a blessing behind the unexpected. Just be willing and God will give you the roadmap!
Kathy
I too had stem cell transplant. I had my 6th (2nd) birthday in Dec.
it was very humbling to see so many in the infusion room. I went first to local office then went to a large city hospital. The room was massive and full of fighters.
These port pillows are a great idea. I too like to give back when I can. Little things do make a difference.
Wishing you the best.
Sheila
Kathy,
Thank you for sharing your story and the directions for these little pillows with purpose! I first saw them on Pinterest searching for quilting ideas…I saved the link knowing that some day soon I would carve out time to make them. Well, I recently met a lovely woman who was going for her port placement on her birthday-I knew it was my sign to get busy, so I made her 2. One for each car she rides in… and I have made more for the Cancer center of the Hospital I work at, they were very delighted with them and said they were gone in 5 minutes! The ladies in my guild are helping me make them now.
God Bless-Thanks again, and stay strong!
This will make a great gift for us to make and give! I’m with an ALL volunteer 501 (c)3 non profit organization that helps people living with debilitating conditions.
We do a lot for cancer patients, but never saw this before. Would love to farm this out to volunteers to make a lot of these to give out in gift bags.
Before doing this, can anyone who has had a port and used this pillow personally, please reach out to me? I have a question about these before I begin asking for sewers and materials.
Thanks so much!
Jennifer Klug
President
Gifts of Cheer
The gift bags sound like a great idea. I’d also like to hear if people find them helpful. I do – but that’s just me talking. 🙂
My aunt and mother are both cancer survivors. My mother was lucky enough that she caught it early and didn’t need chemo. My aunt was not as lucky and went through two rounds. I am so thankful that you posted this. I plan on making these and giving them to the hospital that treated my aunt and also to the local chemo center where I live.
Thank you and stay strong!
Kayla
Cancer just seems to touch everyone in one way or another. And often in more ways than one. I’m sure your donation will be much appreciated. I hope your mother and aunt are doing well.
Thank you so much for the pattern. I donate prayer shawls and cancer caps to our cancer center but never thought of the port pillows. It is a great project and a great way to use up some scraps. I hope you are doing well and I will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you, Pat. I am doing well. And always appreciate positive thoughts and prayers. You are already giving of yourself to cancer patients and I’m sure this will also be appreciated. (It is a great way to use up fabric scraps!)
would love to get your patterns for prayer shawl and caps. I am making these pillows to give to infusion center. my sister has been cancer free for 12 years now. I want to pay it forward on her behalf. I think what you are doing is wonderful.
I am an 19 year survivor. My daughter is a 1 year survivor. All the meds etc does end and you will get on down the road of life.
Thank you for stopping by, Ann. Wow – 19 years is such a big number! All the best to you and your daughter. <3
Wow! I hated the port! It was the worst in IMHO, and I’ve never seen any thing like this! I pinned it and shared it and plan on making them. Thank you for posting this.
So glad I found that one little pillow in the basket where I had chemo! Look what it has led to. 🙂
OH, I am too! I had a cancer scare a few years ago and wanted to do something to show God my gratitude for the good outcome. I called to volunteer at the cancer center offering to do housework, run errands or whatever cancer patients needed but no one ever called so now I have THIS that I have been doing for cancer patients and am so happy I landed on your pattern. I had no idea there was a need before! I have 40 to give so far after 3 days and just need to locate the local cancer center. BUT FIRST, I’m going to make cheerful greeting cards to attach to them AND enlist a group of prayer warriors to pray over a small bottle of oil for their healing. I will then touch a toothpick or awl with the oil to the Velcro thus making the pillow a prayer cloth too.
I am a breast cancer survivor but needed to have a breast removed. I was given a very pretty pink heart pillow to use in the car but there was nothing to keep it in place. It would need to fasten to the seat belt but be able to cover the whole breast area.because it is tender there.. I think the velcro would work on one edge of the pillow. The pillow was about eight inches across.
Hope this is a help to some of you.
I should add that not all people with cancer or cancer scares do not want one more thing in pink.
Found this post today, just in time!! My good friend, who is a Thirty-One consultant, is donating 15 bags filled with goodies to a local chemo center…and I am contributing these pillows. I made one adjustment to your pattern: I cut the Velcro strip to 3.5 inches, which allows for sewing the edge without worrying about catching the free end when you sew. It works great!!! Thanks for a great idea!!!
I don’t know why I didn’t think of that! It makes it much easier to sew – I tried it out yesterday… When I have time, I’ll go back and edit my post with your suggestion. Thanks, Wanda!
A super idea. My Mother is cancer free now for 15 years! Awesome – she went thru breast cancer and bladder cancer. Our local Library has started a young girls sewing club and these would be a great little project that they could make and feel useful when they donate the finished items to the cancer unit. I can’t wait to go thru my fabric (I quilt) and get pieces together to start this next Tuesday. Thanks for sharing this idea and remember to ENJOY every minute of every day.
Judy, Alberta, Canada
Your mom has been through a lot! Glad she has come through it all so well. I hope these work out well for the girls. Thanks for your comments, Judy.
You have inspired me. I am a 19 yr breast cancer and 65 yrs old. I sew a lot and I think I may make some of these for patients in our city. Thanks so much for the inspiration and I truly hope you are doing fine.
Wow – another 19-year survivor! You guys are inspiring me! I am doing well. Two years down …
Can these be used to hold in their hand when they are having treatment done. We could make it just like to pillow without the Velcro . Let me know what you think and I will start working on it.
I love, love your idea! Almost ten years ago, I died and went to Heaven and was told to go back that it was not my time to come, since that time I try to give back on how God orchestrated smoothly that day that I might live. On March 14, 2006, I went to the hospital for a heart cath, another doctor was called in and he ruptured my artery, I had to learn to walk, talk, read, eat, etc. everything all over again and I should not be here to tell this story. So now I make lap quilts for cancer patients, Men & Women of Valor and Birthright, which can be a very time consuming task, so these little pillows would be much faster idea for cancer patients. I made my first cancer quilt for a 22 year old woman with Leukemia, I guess I worry about cancer patients being cold. I have survived cancer 5 times. A little FYI…. Before I died I had just graduated from college as an Esthetician/massage tech and when I met this young woman, she was very nauseated and I did Reflexology on her by massaging her feet & it took the nausea away, something they did not teach me in college. Even still to this day, I use a little cover over my seat belt, which is worn out and I have been thinking I need to make me a cover. I will continue to lift you & many others up in my prayers. May God’s virtuous healing touch you and everyone else.
My goodness, Jan, what a story you have! So awesome to hear of your miraculous recovery. I hope you enjoy making the pillows. Although I was feverish at the beginning of my treatment, I have found that the chemo seems to have left me a little susceptible to being cold. Bless you for all that you share.
I came across your pattern when browsing pinterest I had a port put in five months ago and wished there was something to help with the seat belt issue thank you for posting the pattern and instructions I’m going to go through my stash of material and make me some and if I do ok with mine I’m going to pay it forward and make some for the infusion center where I get my treatments done. Pray all is well with you
I hope you find it helpful! Healing thoughts for you, Jane!
I start chemo on Wed. Feb. 10th and have been looking for resources. This is a great idea and I hope to make many of them to fill the basket at the center. So glad to hear you are doing well.
Healing thoughts for you, Lynne! I hope all goes well. I’m sure any pillows you make for others will be appreciated.
Thank you so much for sharing how to do this. What a wonderful idea.!! I want to make one right away. My baby brother, who is 34 years old has Mutiple Sclerosis. He just had a port put in a couple of months ago and I have not seen these. He has been diagnosed since he was 16. He will love this. A thousand thank you’s. God Bless you and hope you have great health from here on out.!!
Thank you, Jeanette. I hope this is helpful to your brother.
I’ve felt the push to be a helper/volunteer ever since I had a cancer scare a couple years ago. I phoned our local cancer center expressing my desire to volunteer to clean house, cook or run errands for their patients and they seemed grateful but never called on me to help. FINALLY, here’s something I can do! I made little hand warmers for my grandchildren that look like this minus the Velcro, filled with rice so they could be heated in the microwave. Would rice work well in these to hold the seatbelt back further? Or would that be unnecessary?
Thank you for wanting to be a helper! It can be hard to find just how to help sometimes.
I think the rice is unnecessary. Sometimes the pillows slip a little on the seatbelt. I think the weight of the rice would cause them to slip and would also create more pressure on the port if it is atop the port.
Thank you! Great idea. Most of the time I cannot figure out how to find out how to make things. I can do this. Thank you for sharing.
You are welcome. Hope you enjoy making some.
This is a great idea! I am a 5 year breast cancer survivor, when I had my port I purchased the seat belt covers made for infants, they worked great. When my port was removed I passed Curios George (they had monkies on them and my husband is George ?) on to people I knew that were receiving treatment.
I am a survivor who like you wanted to give back, I probably made 100 hats and left them in doctors office. I love this idea, am thinking I need to make some.
Thank you so much and good luck! It is a long process, positive thoughts and a positive attitude.
I like a little humor with my cancer, so I think I would have enjoyed a Curious George seatbelt cover. If only I had known… What kind of hats do you make? Knit, crochet, sewn?
Kathy, how much stuffing do you put in the pillow? If I still had my Powerport I would test it on myself first, but I dont. Thanks for this wonderful idea.
I don’t stuff to the point of being hard, but it needs to hold its shape. Mediumly stuffed, I guess. Lol.
So happy to hear you are doing well, I think you are a very positive person. Two groups I belong to have been making heart pillows for breast cancer patients, these are wrapped in cellophane with a big pink ribbon and given to patients soon after their operations. They are welcomed by the patients who use them to help with seatbelts and something to hold and know many people are thinking of them when they feel down, they are all filled with love. Such a small thing to make but brings so much joy.
I would now like to make some portacath pillows so will be copying your pattern, it’s good to give.
Keep well and happy.
The heart pillows are so thoughtful and versatile – especially with their message of love!
I hope you enjoy making these little pillows.
My daughter had a stem cell transplant last March after going through chemo for acute myleoid leukemia. She was at the cancer center at the University of West Virginia and I would love to make some of these to give back. Do you have cards to go with them that explain their use or do patients know what they are? Thanks for posting and congratulations on being cancer free!
I hope your daughter is doing well!
A little card attached would be a wonderful addition. I hate to admit that I have just been too lazy or unimaginative to get it done! One time I attached a note to the open box I filled with pillows that explained their purpose. I thought I would reuse it each month when I made a delivery to the infusion room. Well … guess who got behind? When I finally made it back with more pillows, my box was gone. Fortunately all the nurses know what they are for, so I guess they have answered any questions.
When i had my port, i wouldn’t wear the top shoulder strap part of my seatbelt in the car because it pushed hard on my port. I always wondered if Police would have written me a ticket.
So happy u thot of this. It’s actually a little miracle that will help so many, many people!!! Smile! And thank u!
I can’t take credit for the idea. I was a recipient of a pillow. My contribution is copying a good idea and passing it on. That’s usually my best work! 🙂
T H A N K Y O U!
I am a great fan of Pinterest and saw your pin. At the time I just filed it away in my mind, not knowing anyone who could use one. Shortly after that, my sister’s stepson was diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma and has had a port put in. They live in MI and I live in AZ but I wanted to help in some way. So your pattern was just the thing.
Today I made 15 portacath pillows (I made a variety for him to choose from and the rest they can distribute.) I made 12 of the 4×7 and decided to try 5 inch squares (charm squares in the quilting world) that I had from a quilting project. I also rounded the corners of the squares. I hope they work as well as the rectangles.
I packaged each of them in a little bag with a card telling what they are used for and indicating what fabric was used, ie cotton, flannel, fleece. It was great fun. I hope to make more.
Thank you so much for sharing your pattern. Glad you’re doing so well! Many blessings!
I love hearing about variations and your use of the quilting squares sounds like a great idea. I hope if anyone uses them, they will provide some feedback.
Healing thoughts for your your nephew! And blessings back at you!
I co-lead Sassy Caps (sassycaps.org), an organization that makes hats for people going through chemo. One of our volunteers has started making these pillows to give out in treatment centers along with the hats. We made up a little tag for them and are going to put it on our website. Would it be ok if we linked to your site for the directions on how to make them?
Wow! You move fast! I’m replying 2 days after your comment and just checked out your website and there is the link. So, yes, it’s ok!
Was someone already making these pillows before you stumbled onto me? I see you have 2 velcro straps on the ones pictured.
I love the sassyness! And the tags! And those Wilton bags that look to be just the right size – I hadn’t thought about looking in the cake decorating department. 🙂
Hello Kathy
Thank you very much for your post. I have never heard of portacath pillows before and this information reached me at the perfect time. My grandma is currently undergoing chemo treatments and I know she would appreciate it so I made her one.
Congrats on your treatment success. Lots of blessing and best wishes to you.
I’m glad this was timely for you, but sorry that your grandmother is in treatment. I’m sure she appreciates all that you do for her! Best wishes to her!
Thank you.?
my husband started kidney dialysis in Sept. 2017 and they also start out with a port at their collarbone and are always cold so they seatbelt things and handwarmers would be a great thing to make and donate to your local dialysis center, too.
Anne L.
Congratulations! My daughter was a stem cell donor last year. I am going to bookmark this post so I can make some, too!
How wonderful that your daughter could be a donor for someone! I was lucky to be able to use my own stem cells, but very much appreciated the plasma and blood donors who contributed to my healing!
What an Amazing idea! Thank you for sharing this. I’m always wanting to find different ways to support. I’m not a survivor and don’t have anyone dealing with cancer. My great grandmother passed from breast cancer in 1975 (over 40yrs ago) and when I found out about it, I instantly became a supporter. I’ve done the the 3day breast cancer walk and other things just to show my support. My question is… Is there a process of volunteering or taking the pillows to a cancer location. I just don’t know where to start but want to do more. Congratulations to you on being a survivor, and I hope and pray your still doing well!
I just take mine to the Oncology center where I am a patient, so an easy “in.”. You might begin by checking with your local American Cancer Society to see if they have suggestions of where to donate. Or maybe even call the office of an oncologist in your area and see what they suggest. Good luck!
Wonderful idea! Would poly pellets be too firm to stuff the pillows with? Or does the poly fiberfill work best? I will make some for my cancer center in Lincon Ne. God bless you! I pray for all people with cancer, their doctors and staff, and especially the researchers. I also pray for family members that are also affected by cancer. Someday there will be an answer for us all.
I’ve never tried polly pellets, so I can’t give you an informed answer. Fiberfill works great. Thanks for all you do!
Kathy, I am so happy you are doing well! I am an RN and I have never heard of a portacath pillow. But what a helpful thing it is. Thank you for sharing how to make it! BTW, I saw this on Pinterest. Pinning it right now!
I am sorry to be so behind in replying to comments! Thank you for leaving a comment and Pinning the pillows!
Thank you so much for sharing this great idea. My grandson is starting chemo next week. He will have a port placed first. He is a St. Jude patient. I am so thankful for this information. It will not only help him, but it is a way we can give back to help someone else. Thank you so much again.
I am sorry to be replying so late. I hope your grandson is doing well. It is so hard to be a parent or grandparent of a cancer patient. Hugs to all of you!
I live in England. We make small heart pillows for breast cancer patients to place under their arms after surgery, these help ease pressure from the arm. Local hospitals can’t get enough of them. As a previous breast cancer patient I know from personal experience these are a great comfort.
Do you have a pattern?
I just read this post and am a quilter 🙂 I hope to make several of these pillows for the local hospital .
Thank you for your post !
Your pillows will be greatly appreciated. I’ll be you have some great scraps to use.
Thank you so much! I wanted to give back to the centers that helped my Mom during her battle (she passed in May 2015), but I wanted to do something that would help in everyday life. I remember her dr gave her a pillow and realized this is one thing I could do. After one post on facebook that I had some to donate but wanted to make the first batch available to friends and family…well I’ve shipped 20 out to individual out of my first batch of 50 pillows, and I have friends who quilt donating fabric left & right. I can’t thank you enough for the step by step instructions–I never sewed a day in my life, but a friends Mom took me through your directions and now I’ve made 75 pillows in 2 weeks, and I plan to continue to do so as long as I can.
Wow! You really jumped right in! I’m sorry to be replying to your comment so late. You’ve probably made well over 100 by now. So many people will be blessed by your kindness.
This is such a wonderful idea. I can’t wait to start making some of these pillows for the cancer center in my hometown. My family has not been touched by cancer but we do have friends going thru this experience. I am truly thrilled to find this idea and know that there is something I can do to help others. Prayers for your continued good health.
Thank you for your prayers and for your contribution to helping others.
These are a wonderful idea. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment, Bonnie.
I wish I would have found this site years ago..but I know it is never to late. I will start this week making these and take them to my closest chemo center. Thank you for sharing.
It’s never too late! Unfortunately the need continues every day. Thanks, Trudy.
What a wonderful and easy idea. Our church ladies now have another use for scrapes left from projects. I was blessed to catch my cancer early, so no chemo,
but I suffer from a neck fracture, fibromyalgia, and arthritis. I can see another use for these with a change of the Velcro to elastic. Attach them to your arm, wrist as a portable cushion while sitting. God bless you ALL.
What a good idea! Something I would never have known to do. Blessings back at you!
What a great idea! I’m going to make some for our local treatment center.
A question: on a brief card, how would you describe these so people know what they are?
We have printable inserts you can use if you like: https://sassycaps.org/2016/02/17/sassy-seatbelts/
The sassycaps note is much more creative than mine. 🙂 I’ve started adding a simple note that says: “A pillow to keep the seatbelt from putting pressure on your port. I like to place mine above my port rather than over it.”
THANK YOU!! I am currently going through treatment and a sewer. I have been using a washcloth on the shoulder strap and was thinking how I could keep it from falling down, this is perfect! I am going to make several and place them in a basket in the infusion center.
I hope this works for you, Janelle. Prayers and good thoughts as you go through treatment. <3
The snack size ziplock bags are a perfect fit for storage. I also tucked a note inside of what is and how to use it.
Good information. Thank you!
AWESOME IDEA!!!! i wonder if instead of doing the hand sewing if you could not use fabric glue to seal it? or even stitch witch? I taught myself how to sew using both . and even on the denim you may could use a hot glue gun? This makes me want to get into my fabric stash and make some then find somewhere to donate them to .. Keep up the awesome work and God Bless you and your family
Please let us know if you use an alternative method and if you like the results.
Yes I would love to know also since I can’t hand sew due to problems with my hands.
Thanks Colleen
Email me mctho1975@yahoo.com
You could also close the opening with your sewing machine.
You r so adorable! Thank you for the pattern. Thankfully no one I know is going through cancer but I sure would like to make some for the cancer center some of the little pillows thank you
It’s been a while since I’ve been called adorable. ? Thank you and you are welcome!
These are fantastic. I am fortunate enough to not need one, but what a great thing to make and donate. I have so many lovely scraps of fabrics that these would be perfect for. Think I have some making to do and can donate. Who hasn’t been touched by cancer whether a family member or a friend. A way to give something to those who need just the little things in life to make their day that much easier. All the best to you and your continued good health. Aileen – Melbourne, Australia.x
It is so lovely to see my little post cross oceans! Thank you!
Would a ribbon to tie, button, work in place of velcro?
Another place to drop off is to your local quilt guild and our fabric/sewing shop. Most have charities they support including hospitals. Some have someone dropping off kits and picking up completed projects.
I would think a ribbon would slip or loosen more easily and not stay in place as well. But you might give it a try and let us know!
Thank you for the idea. I am a 10 year survior and remember the struggle with my seatbelt. I am making a dozen or so to take to the chemo center. Best wishes and prayers for a complete recovery.
Thank you Deborah. Wishing continued good health to you.
great post and tips! I may consider one of these for my dad!
I hope your dad is doing well. Thanks for the comment.
I’m just about to start making for the Christie Cancer Centre in Manchester England
My husband is having treatment, it’s good to give something back to the wonderful people helping us at the centre.
Thanks for sharing your ideas. Hope you are doing well, all our best wishes
I’ve had my port for 5 years as I’m an ovarian cancer patient and have had 2 recurrences so far. I have not seen a port pillow until this week online so I’m excited to make one for myself and will take them up to my hospital in Denver when I go for my next appointment. I love to sew and this is such a great way to give back and help others! Thank you for your excellent instructions and now I’m ready to go sew! Take care! 🙂 Sue
Living in Texas brings the words “Bless your heart!” to mind. My doctor and I have talked about maybe removing my port after my next CT scan. I want to, and yet I had a cancer that frequently returns. Keeping it longer seems to provide a little psychological comfort for me – it is there at the ready. That said, best to you and I hope you enjoy the project and that it also works well for you.
Thank you for the pattern! My friend has breast cancer & I was trying to find ways to help her have an easier time with all that was happening to her. She loved her pillow & I have now decided to do them as a service project at church with our VBS class. We will pray over them and put a scripture inside. Thank you for sharing your design!!
I’m so glad your friend found her pillow helpful! I hope it is a successful project for VBS. I’d love to hear how it goes!
I have just taken the first batch in to Christies in Manchester England. Every body was so thrilled with them. Thanks for the idea and good wishes to all x
That is wonderful! Thank you for letting us know.
I hope your husband is doing well!
My friend’s mom had her port installed yesterday so I want to make her some of these pillows. Thank you for sharing! As for the velcro, my daughter found what is referred to as “baby” velcro– velcro used for baby clothes, etc. because of it’s flexibility and softness against tender skin. Maybe that tip will help your readers. God bless and congrats on your recovery!
I’ve gotten waaay behind in answering comments! Thank you for the tip! I hope your friend’s mom is doing well.
Hello. My name is Rose and I am a volunteer for a group called Circle of Love. We crochet hats, blankets, angel wraps, chemo caps, etc. and distribute them to hospitals and facilities in the Philadelphia and suburban area. Although I do a fairly good job at simple crochet hats and the like, my forte is sewing. I am always on the lookout for sewing projects to make for our group. I came across your blog, I think, on Pinterest and thought what a good idea these little pillows were. I made up a couple prototypes and shared them with our organizer. I even found a little poem from another blog to include with them. Our first batch will be going out to St. Christopher’s Hospital in Philadelphia this week. Thank you so much for the idea and inspiration. Hope all is well with you.
Hi Rose! I am far behind with replying to comments and apologize for my delay. I’m glad you found my blog post and have a new way to use your sewing skills. The patients who receive your pillows will appreciate your act of kindness and the comfort it provides. Thank you for leaving your comments!
My seat belt is incredibly tight against my neck and my chest, so I may make a very long version of this as I have to drive 80 miles one way for chemo, and later for radiation. Thank you so much for sharing the idea!
I hope that works for you, Barbara. Wow – such a long drive there and back! I feel so lucky to have received most of my treatment nearby. I hope you are doing well.
My daugher’s boyfriend (less than 3 months) was diagnosed with cancer and will begin chemo this week. I am making him one…thanks for the directions. I’ll see if there are any available at his hospital…and if not, I’ll be sure to make some for them.
I’m sure he will appreciate your act of kindness during this difficult time. Thank you for letting me know that you found the pattern and your plans to use it. I pray for good results for your daughter’s boyfriend.
Just saw your info with the portacath pillow and going to start making these to donate to the Red Deer Hospital, Alberta. Canada. I am excited to do this as I had not heard about this pillow before and I am glad this will help someone even in a small way. Hope all is well with you.
Donna, thank you for your comment and for spreading a little bit of comfort to others! I am doing well!
Dear Kathy, thank you for this recipe… or pattern… 🙂
I write from Chile . You know, I had never heard of this kind of pillow , and I think is a great and wonderful idea. In fact, I commented about this fantastic idea to a friend who has won the battle against cancer and she said, it is fabolous. So I’ve decided to start work to bring them to the hospital . Thank you very much, blessings and a big hug. Plis I m sorry, but mi bad english. So, the important is that I knew your story and understand the recipe!!!! And… of course we are praying for you and doctors, nurses, voluntiers and patients… Kisses… Rossana
Thank you, Rossana! I teach English to immigrants to the U.S. and I think your English is great! I am glad you and your friend like the pillows. The pillows you make will bless the patients who receive them. <3
Thak you Kathy…I’m sure it will be that way…:):):)
Thank´s for all, also for your patience to teach… <3 <3 😉
My friend and her church group makes Love Pillows and delivers them to a few hospitals in Central Florida for Cancer Patients. I have received 3 of their pillows for a friend and family. I give her money to buy more fabric so her group can make more Love Pillows. Their love pillows are heart pillows and in sizes of 10-12 inches and helps relieve an uncomfortable chair or position.
I will pass on your idea for them to consider to make too. Thanks for all you’re doing. I hope your battle is over and you have continued good health.
My son’s bio father lost his battle of over 6 years about 21 months ago. And my brother in law is fast approaching his end we fear. We have lost several family and friends to this awful disease. Pray for a cure soon.
I am so sorry for your losses, Savona. I was blessed to benefit from treatment that would not have been available a few years ago. My doctor said we may not have a permanent cure for me, but who knows what advances will be available in another 5 years. We must support research and learn and put into practice all that we can about prevention. And pray.
Thank you for passing on this idea and supporting the work of your friend and her church group.
Thank you so much! We are adding these pillows to our project list for community supporters. I am with Ronald McDonald House Houston. We provide a home away for families with seriously ill children. The pillow is great for seat belts and car seat straps. Thank yo for your post!
Thank you, Colleen!
I also received a port pillow from Texas Oncology in San Antonio. And not to seem like an ingrate, I found the fabric that was used on the one I was given was an irritant to my skin. I ended up purchasing a pair of faux sheepskin ones and giving the other to a friend who is undergoing chemo. I will be sure to return the one I was given because maybe it will work for the next person. I am grateful for all that volunteers do for us all. And the port pillows are a godsend when you’re in the passenger seat of any vehicle.
Thank you for the reminder about fabric choice. I use fabric that is not rough, is washable, and is free of pet dander and smoke. Recently I brought home some fiber fill that my mom had and it has a very strong (although pleasant) scent. Probably from being stored in a closet with scented candles. I won’t use it for this. All my best to you.
I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and was blessed not to have to have chemo but have just finished my 6th radiation treatment with 15 to go. I have made these to donate to Texas Oncology of Mesquite as a way to help someone going thru chemo. Thank you so much for the pattern.
Judy, you must have finished radiation by now. Yay! Thank you for helping others!
Yes I finished 21 radiation treatments this past Tuesday. Will be see my oncologist in a couple of weeks to start the hormone blocking medication. Thank you so much for the portacath pillow pattern. Hope you continue to do well.
Much gratitude for this post on Port a cath pillows, I am Not a cancer patient but am on my 3rd port, you see I am a gutless (literally) girl and my port is my life line for acute dehydration, I am a very small person and have a lot of issues with port pain…. This pillow will be a life saver!!!!! Thanks so very much…..
Gosh Ronda, I hope you find this helpful! You are so very welcome.
Do you think the pillow could be machine stitched? I am wanting to get a group together to make at least 100 and thought machine stitching would help us reach that goal.
I’m sure you could finish off the opening by machine stitching. Good luck!
I machine stitch mine! I just fold each side inward the best I can. I make mine a little bigger though–they’re usually closer to 5×7 (or 7×5–depends how you look at it 🙂
Awesome!
I have been making these for our local cancer centers too. Thank you so much for posting this . These little pillows make up so fast. Thank goodness too..they are flying out of the centers.
I am making them also for our cancer center. So far I have made and donated 60. They are given away faster than I can make them. Working on another 12 today.
Wow, Judy! I’m really behind in answering comments and I see I’m answering you twice tonight. Just wonderful!
You are obviously filling a need. Bless you!
These little pillows may also work for pacemaker patients.
My husband was given a ready made pillow by the surgery center.
It’s rather long and stiff to me. Seems like the softer fiberfill ones would be more comfortable.
I’ll have to make one and get his opinion.
Best wishes for your continued recovery.
Hello, I am glad to hear that you are healthy and happy after such an ordeal.
My mother recently passed away at 93 years of age, but for the last 10 years of her life she suffered from Myelodysplasia. A troublesome disease which required her to have at least 2 Blood transfusions a month. These were bad at the start because her veins were not in good shape. So she finally had to have a pickline and then went on to have a port. She sure could have used one of these pillows.
I on the other hand am short and healthy but in my husbands truck the seat belt rubs my neck something terrible. I think this little pillow will help me immensely. I will also plan on sewing some up for my friends at the doctor’s office that treated my mother so sweetly for so many years. Thank you so much for the instructions. I do appreciate them.
I can’t wait to make some. I am 9 yrs cancer free. Although I was fortunate enough to only have to take one radiation pill. I have been looking for something simple to sew where i can make a lot of them . I have so much fabric and rolls of velcro I can use. I’m getting started tomorrow on sewing and calling some local places to see where to donate. Not sure who to call but I’ll figure it out.
Kathy I hope you are still answering these msgs. How amazing God is when He works good things through us, His hands. You are truly a blessing. God be with you.
Hugs
Tracey
For pacemaker patients too. Seat belt goes right across it
Thank you so much for this tutorial and for your loving heart! I am new to sewing and this would be a wonderful project to practice as well as to give back. Some steps confused me a little and I was wondering if you would be kind enough to post a video tutorial.
Thank you !! I will be making some of these i will be starting treatment tomorrow November 22nd. I haven’t seen these at the treatment center. Again Thank you so much!! Happiness Always!! Carol
You are an inspiration and I am going to make some too. God Bless and I will say a prayer for everyone going through these challenges of life
I am also going to make these for seatbelts. I also had cancer and a port. I also had to wear a pump home for three days after the office infusion. I found a small handmade should bag that really worked holding the pump. I am also going to make some of these in male and female colors/patterns. I didnt have pockets., so this great. It was only about 7 inches long and 5 inches across. The shoulder strap was long enough for me. Maybe i would use velcro to make it adjustable. A simple rectangle. I also wore it under a top to kinda hide it out in public. A lot of others were interested in it. I need to get off my butt this winter and make a bunch. Thank you for for your ideas!! God bless. Ive been clear on my last tests.!! It was stage 3 colon cancer
No early warnings, i just kept putting off my test. At 50 yrs old would have been a polyp. At 55 waould have been stage 2 . I was 56. Please do the test!! So easy, really, you feel nothing afterward. God bless
These look amazing. I don’t know anyone close that’s going thru this, but I would love to make some to donate. I recently gave away all of my material, but I could start collecting again. My sister is wanting to start learning to sew. What a great way to start. I’ve always made little pillows, grocery bag holders and such by hand, but using my machine would be so much easier. I’m not great at it, but it doesn’t need to be expertly done to be of use.
My son was a Shriners kid (he had Legge Calf Perthes disease) when he was 7 ( he is now 16 1/2 and doing great), and some ladies made little pillows, and pants/underwear for the kids being treated with LCPD. It was wonderful to receive these items. I would love to give back.
I’m praying you are well and just really busy. I’ve read all of the comments, yours and others, and see you haven’t responded lately. Praying all is well.
I’m a little confused on the part about attaching the Velcro, but I’m sure I can figure it out.
I’ve taught myself the basics of sewing, crocheting, and knitting. I’m not great at any of it, but truly do want to help.
Thank you so much for this tutorial.
Love and hugs, from Christy in Florida
Enlarge the picture of the finished pillow by clicking on it and the details are much better! Good luck.
What a great idea! I am four years cancer free! I have a lot of scrap materials and will be making some for the cancer center I attended. Even though my port has been out for two years, that area is still tender and constantly moving my seat belt around. Will experiment on myself first and then make more! Thank you for sharing your pattern.
I also celebrate my cancer free birthdays!
Hi Kathy-I hope you are well. Thank you for your post. I love to do charity sewing and this is perfect. Is it necessary to have Velcro or could you use ribbon to tie the pillow to the seatbelt? Just an idea, what do you think?
Sincerely,
Lourdes
I found your blog while searching Google to find out what these pillows look like. Thank you for posting the pictures, the dimensions, and the instructions for making them. I’m going to try knitting and crocheting some (I’m better at that than sewing). Besides. Resting something useful for someone, it’s a great way to use up odd bits of yarn!
I wanted to do some charity work for Lent! I’ve been a cancer survivor since 2013! I love these pillows and I want to do 40 different items for Lent instead of “giving up” something. I’m very excited to make this pillows and it should be a lot faster that knitting scarfs! God’s blessing to you and that you for the wonderful pillow pattern!
Jan on March 13th at 8:32 said: I just found out I have cancer. I read your story and was touched deeply. I am a sewer and I would love to make the pillows & some hats to take to the cancer center were I’m going. I hope to be as strong as you going through this. Hope to stay in touch with other survivors .
Kathy are out ok? I just discovered a pin that brought me to your site. What a wonderful idea this is. I just packed a box with fabric to donate but I will grab some of it to join your efforts of support for patients!!
Sorry I am very very late in replying …. I am okay! Thanks for asking. And thanks for joining in!
Hi, I just found this post thru Pinterest. I had no idea of how useful this could be to person going thru chemo. Thank you for sharing it and I hope you are doing well.
I have been very neglectful about replying to comments and I apologize. I am doing well, thank you!
My mom and sister were both diagnosed with breast cancer 6 months apart. I am sitting here in the surgical waiting room waiting for my mom to have her second port-a-cath placed. When I get home, I’m going to make them each one (for each of their vehicles)! Such a great idea! Thank you. The perfect idea, just when I needed it!
Sorry I am so late in replying! Bless your heart! Too much at one time! I hope your mom and sister are both doing well and I’m glad you found this helpful
My daughter is a breast cancer survivor and I wish I had known about these when she had her port. I am thinking that two pillows might be better than just one. By placing one above and one below the port site, it might be more comfortable. I asked my daughter and she totally agreed. But the one thing we could never figure out was how for her to wear a seatbelt after her reconstruction. It was a concern but just not possible. Actually her doctor gave her a written statement that she should not wear one. Consequently, she did not travel at all during that time.
Bless you for taking the time to provide these little treasures to those who can use them. I live in a very small town quite a distance from any kind of treatment centers, but maybe they would accept something by mail. This is something I will look into.
My mother was a Hoskins! Whatever works to make someone more comfortable is good with me! Sorry for my very late reply!
My 45 yr old son-in-law was diagnosed with stage 4 colon and liver cancer. Currently undergoing chemo and he to complained of the strap cutting across his neck with the home chemo pack. Going to try making some but adjust the size. He also complained of his hands being cold sensitive so made him some micro wave bowl cozies but adijusted the size for using to hold anything cold. My prayers go out to each and everyone.
I have been very neglectful in responding to comments lately. I hope your son-in-law is doing well. I’m interested in knowing more about the bowl cozies.
I’m in my 40’s and I was diagnosed with stage 3 Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. I underwent my first chemo treatment a little over a week ago. I’m so glad I found this because I don’t remember seeing anything like this at our infusion center. I have to say the seat belt is very annoying on my port. I’m surprised I never thought of this. Thank you so much for sharing. I think I will make up several with my mom. She is constantly trying to find ways of helping me. She even made me infused heating pads to help my aches and pains and when I’m cold. We are also making soft knit, yet stylish, hats for me to wear. I’m so glad to hear about your recovery and your birthdays. I’m looking forward to when I start to celebrate mine.
You and your mom sound like the best! Sending good thoughts your way!
Hi Kathy
Hope all is well with you, and prayers for continued good health!
Thanks for posting this pattern! What a great idea and a great act of charity,
Thank you, Lori. Yes, all is well with me!
Thanks
I think these little pillows are needed everywhere there is a cancer treatment facility!!! I volunteer at one of those places and today I found out that our supply that a Girl Scout troop had made, was running very low. A few minutes later I assisted a patient who had a lovely quilt. She said that her sister made the quilt. Ah ha! The light went on and I asked her sister if she could make us some of these pillows. She got really excited about doing it, so I left a copy of your pattern with her!!! Thank you so much for posting the pattern!!!
Quilters are my best source of fabric! It takes so little fabric to make one of these pillows and my quilting friends often have scraps that I can use.
Thank you for this great idea.
My husband passed from colon cancer this year. He had a port and wouldn’t wear the top portion of the seat belt because of the irritation to his port.
The LORD willing, I will get some of these made up to share with the patients at the cancer center where my husband visited.
Thanks again for giving me a way to bless those who are going through it now.
Cheryl
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, Cheryl. Any pillows you make will be a blessing to those who receive them. You know what little things mean.
Thank you so much for these directions! Never had heard of them before which is surprising since we have had many family members with ports. I will be whipping up some to donate and it is a perfect craft to do with my kids! Keeping you in my prayers Kathy.
to whom it may concern.
I’m a cancer survivor of 8 years now and all these emails made me feel so proud to belong to such a special club, with all of you helping each other with information and tips and support.
There wasn’t so much of it around when I was going through it alone. I sew and from what ive seen I will be able to make several of these cushions–I may add some lavender into the stuffing.
I will be taking then to our local hospital so hopefully they will be able to help other patients.
Thank you again to the lady whose friends asked her to make these cushions , you have helped so many and in deed me.
Thank you for sharing your pattern. I have lots of scraps of material and would be glad to make some of these pillows, do you know the address of where I could send them? Thank you again. Hope your doing well. Prayers for you, Karen Roberts
I go in for my third six month appointment today. Kudos to every one who is working on survivorship! The reality show “Survivor” has nothing on us when displaying our pure determination and guts to win this race! Also, a shout out for the caregivers. I hope everyone has one as great as my husband has been.
I didn’t have a port but saw a pattern similar to this when I was looking for something else. Isn’t that the way? I’ve been making batches of these over a year now. Using up scraps and the stuffing left over from other projects. I always wonder how much stuffing so I checked this posting. One more thing I do with the Velcro is make the rough side at least an inch shorter. It’s still long enough to hold, but less likely to scratch. I make the soft side shorter too. When making batches of 30 every inch adds up. (I buy my hooks and loops off the roll.)
I made one for myself out of a minky scrap to use to protect my neck from the seatbelt when riding in the back seat.
Thanks for sharing your pattern for the port pillow. I have started making them for our local hospital cancer center. I have a friend who has a pacemaker who also had problems with the seat belt being uncomfortable so I made one for him! Best wishes for continued good health. God bless.
I think the pillow is a Wonderful idea, I am a Breast Cancer Cerviver 5years , when I had a port for the chemo my partner he put a piece of sheepskin on my seat belt which did help , I have joined some lovely ladies who call themselves the Knitted Knockers , we knit cotton implants for ladies who have had Mastectomies, they are free to everyone who would like them , lovely to see the kindness of one another in times of ill health
Wonderful idea and so easy to make. I hate hand sewing so just tucked ends in and top- stitched. Most important, of course, are people with a port. However, they are great for most anyone who finds the seat belt uncomfortable. I will be making lots of them!
Dear angel on earth. I lost my husband after his second cell transplant and I thank you for the wonderful idea for helping a potion of the community that is many times overlooked. Many people would like to help others but so many times the ideas that are presented are for money making. Thank you for generously offering the instructions and clearly showing how it is done. God bless you aann may the next year find your health and life in wonderful condition.
I am a stage 3 colon cancer survivor. I wish I had one of these pillows when I had my port. I hated that thing and couldn’t wait to get it removed! I stumbled upon this while searching for something to make for my Relay for Life event. I think this will be something that folks will appreciate. Thank you for taking the time to post this.
What a wonderful act of kindness you are doing for so many people. My sister has had cancer and is presently in remission, however she is still having chemo and has a port. This will add to make her a little more comfortable. It’s a blessing for me that I found your website. Thanks again.
I am glad I found this. What a great idea. My little brother had cancer for 2-1/2 years but lost his battle with it May 16,2017. I also have a friend that has cancer that has to go for treatment. I see and have all kinds of scraps I can use up and would love to give back in my brother’s name. I hope you are doing well and thank you.
Candi Ewert
Hi,
I just saw your post. Hopefully you are in best of health, I pray. Thank you so much for this Portacath pillow idea, It must be very therapeutic to make them, I will certainly make some and donate it to cancers centers around my city. Just praying that I am able to do it.
Thank you once again.
God Bless
Farzana.
Simple but truly awesome idea! I will start making these this weekend!
I hope all is going awesome for you and I’ll keep you in my prayers.
Wonderful idea. Can the pillow also be done as knitting with soft yarn?
I suppose so if the stuffing doesn’t poke out. Less of a problem with knitting than crochet, I would think. You can give it a try. I would suggest synthetic yarn rather than wool so that it could be washed if needed.
What a wonderful idea. I have MS and live in the tiny town if Rapid City Manitoba. I am basically housebound so I busy myself with craft work. I lost my mum to metastases breast cancer in 2009. These would be great to make in her name for people battling this darn desease. Thanks so much
Hello Miss Kathy,
I am delighted to hear you are still cancer free. I would like to note I do believe in God. Sometimes I tell my family that he often gives us “winks”. With your post, God gave me a wink.
Let me explain before you think I am crazy. I always get notifications from Pinterest. Most of the time I’m busy and I ignore them.
For some reason, even though I’m very busy, I clicked on my notification and immediately saw your post for these pillows.
My mother was free of breast cancer for almost a year. In March she got pneumonia once it cleared up, she didn’t feel better. I noticed the lovely active lady (at 75) just didn’t look right. After she had a bunch of test, she was notified the week be for Christmas that she had metastatic stage 4 breast cancer. Her breast cancer was back and spread into her lung and lymph nodes.
I’ve been looking for ways to make her life a little bit easier. I was hoping to share something with others to show they are also loved. Hats took me too long and I simply could not think of anything. So I had no ideas.
God winked and made me click on my Pinterest notification and led me to you and your idea.
Today for some reason (God’s wink) I did something that I probably don’t do 98% of the time. I opened my Pinterest Notification. I didn’t have to scroll you were right there at the top.
That is what I call a God’s wink. 😉 He leads use to where we need to go.
I can’t wait to make these. I may be able to do these as an “in the hoop” design on my embroidery machine. I may make one change depending on how it feels. I will probably be lazy and use a top-stitching seam around the pillow to close up the end after stuffing. LOL My hand sewing leaves a lot to be desired. Oooh maybe I can use a strip of fusible stuff.
Miss Kathy, I apologize for going on and on. But I wanted you to know how much God has used you in my life, my mother’s life and hopefully other patients at her cancer center.
THANK YOU!
God Bless You and may you continue to be cancer free.
Janet
I’m going through chemo now. I will be making this for our office. Just love the idea, thanks Donna
What a great idea to give back to those who needs it. Always good to give back I hope all your Families are progressing well with their treatments! God Bless you all!
One of my long time friend from our church, Baytown Revival Center in Baytown TX is suffering with Cancer. Found this info and will immediately make her several of these pillows and add a fabric cross inside them. May God Bless everyone who is suffering or have families suffering with Cancer hold tight to God’s merciful hand.
It would be nice to have one for each car she rides in but the velcro allows her to take it with her to use any time she rides in a different car. A spare would be good in case she forgets one in a friend’s car for sure. Someone mentioned placing a fabric cross inside and I plan to take the ones I make to be prayed over and blessed by the pastor and congregation, much like a prayer cloth would be. There are healing powers in those prayers! Bless you!
Hi Kathy, Iike many others here I, too, am a cancer survivors of two going on 7 years now and I feel so blessed. I am sewer and wanted to do something nice for all that I was given and these lil pillows are perfect. I will begin tomorrow and hope to make enough by the following Monday to take some in. May God Richly Bless you and your family. Thank You and have a blessed week ahead. Fran
Kathy God Bless you and many more years of good health. Is it possible to send me the address for this hospital in Texas. I would like to make some an donate them to this hospital. It may be lil to us but I’m sure it’s not to the people that need them. Is there anything else I can make that would help out some of the Patients?
Thank you for sharing this . I have lots of fabric to use up . I have known too many friends with cancer and hope to make these to give to the local hospital. Sending lots of love your way , Lesley xx
This would e a great project for high school children to do. It would help the patients and the students. Most school systems require a student to give back to the community with projects of ideas in such as one like this. I really need an address of this hospital in Texas, so I may talk with my school district. They maybe interested they may not but I would really like to offer this to them. But I need this one more thing. Thank you I just went and bought my materials to start making these port pillows.
There are cancer centers and hospitals in every community. I suggest that you locate a local medical facility that would appreciate receiving the pillows. Best of luck!
Splendid idea!
I’m think it might cheer these recipients of the pillows even more to attach them (using a rubber band perhaps) to a cheerful handmade greeting card. I found many lists of encouraging things to say to chemo patients and a beautifully decorated card would be appreciated, I’m sure. Walmart has lots of economical cardstock! Pinterest has lots of great ideas for handmade card decorating.
I used this post , Thank you
Scripture says fervent prayer availeth much. I’m asking a group of praying Christians to pray over a bottle of oil which I will then use to apply a tiny touch of oil to the pillows making them essentially prayer cloths as well.
Hey in Denmark we make a heart pillow for cancer patient’s the pillow are the shape as a heart. You Can put it under your arm if you lost a breast, or take it and hold around it. Here it is a great succes. If someone are interresting I Will try to get the pattern.
Best regards and have a good year.
Please send pattern for the heart. Thank you.
Hello to everyone that has sent loving messages of hope and love. I myself had 3 breast cancer operations over a few years. Resulting in eventually having a double mastectomy and ive never looked back. I had 2 reconstructions at different times and I’m very pleased with the result.
To be positive is the key every step of the way.
Every time you have the chemo imagine good solders blasting out the bad–sounds a simple thing to do but the more chemo you have the worse you feel so something simple is more manageable.
I found the radiotherapy just as bad-trying to look after 3 children and feeling that poorly all the time. Friends and family are what you need to help with ordinary household duties- its all I could do was to collapse in a heap, I know everyone isn’t the same some even work through it. I felt so ill I couldn’t. That was 7 years ago and going strong.
There’s is always the fear that it may return — but I say NO NO you aren’t coming back.
This opportunity of helping others is a way of travelling the cancer free road even more enjoyable. There are so many people still experiencing dreadful news from hospital appointments my heart goes out to all of them. That’s why being able to write this and share it with so many of you is good for me and also shows others there is hope and they are not alone. i will be making some of these little pillows to send to my local Cancer ward.
Thank you
thank you so much for pattern . i love to sew. i make dialysis pillows, pillowcases and quilts for levine children hospital. i also knit toboggans . it is a blessing to give.
What a wonderful idea! Sewing is one of my greatest joys in life. I will be making these to donate to our local clinic. Thank you so much. I hope things are well with you. 💜
Dear Kathy,
Hope that today is a day of celebration for you as I see that it is the anniversary of your stem cell transplant.
I am a 18 month breast cancer survivor. The day of my surgery I received a bag that contained a heart shaped pillow to put under my arm after the surgery to relieve the pressure on the incisions under my arm and on the tumor site. I keep it in the truck, because for some reason riding in a vehicle causes there to still be pain in that area at times. Have another heart pillow that I made that I keep in my car. Have another small travel size pillow that I use in the bed at night to help relieve the pressure that still causes discomfort all these months later. Each time I see my heart pillow I am so thankful that someone cared about what I was going through to make the pillow and donate it to the hospital where I was cared for. When I got to where I felt like sewing some, I started making heart pillows and some that aren’t heart pillows for the men that have breast cancer.
A few months ago I made some port pillows to be put in the infusion room at the cancer center and they went very quickly. I would like to make some more, but the pattern that I used, took a while to make and so I have not gotten any more made. I saw your pattern and thought I would try it. I had seen your pattern before, but was concerned about the velcro getting against the patients skin and causing discomfort. Was that a problem at all for you? The other pattern I used uses fabric straps and then adds a small piece of velcro to the end. The straps are part of the reason it takes so long to make the pillows. The concern I had with the fabric strap is that there might not be enough velcro on them to keep the pillow on the seat belt.
Thank you for sharing the information that you share about these pillows. I was blessed not to have to have a port, but many of my friends have had to have one and I know that they are very uncomfortable for some.
Praying that you continue to do well.
Thanks for noticing my 4th birthday! It is such a comfort when we are blessed with a heart pillow or whatever it is that makes us feel cared for and more comfortable.
I have not been bothered by the velcro on the pillow I use. It had not been trimmed to size and sometimes bothered me, but once trimmed, no problem. Some velcro is much stiffer than others. I try to get the lighter weight when I can, but as long as I round the corners when I trim the velcro on the stiffer ones I think it’s ok.
Kathy this is wonderful. Thanks for sharing the pattern. My daughter had deep brain stimulation in and they are on her right and left sides of her chest. I would put washcloths over them so the seatbelt wouldn’t rub. I sure wish I would of known sooner. I am definitely going to make some to donate. Thank you for sharing
What a wonderful idea! Sewing is one of my greatest joys in life. I will be making these to donate to our local clinic. Thank you so much. I hope things are well with you.
If anyone needs one and cannot make one themselves or know of someone please contact me and I would be happy to make and send them and hats if needed just send me there address at 8Luv2Knit8@gmail.com
I feel blessed that I found this site. My sweet young friend who is like our granddaughter found out recently she has breast cancer. She gets her port tomorrow and chemo begins next week. She has two young girls and her husband just found out that the company he is working for is closing the location he is at. They will most likely relocate to another site 3 hours away. The baby girl is being christened this Sunday and we are going to be there. I wanted to do something for her. They are huge Clemson Tiger fans. I have some Clemson fabric. I think I will make each one of them a ‘seat belt’ Tiger pillow. She will love it. Grace and blessings to Kathy and to everyone who reads this.
Thank you for the post. I wish I would have found it last year when my late husband had a cardiac catheterization. If you make it little bigger it would work for open heart patients as well.
I have just seen this post and pinned it. This is a wonderful idea. I would like to know if this size pillow would also work for children who have cancer.
Thank you,
Kathy
Thank you for sharing. We have a family member going through treatment now and I know he would appreciate this and anything else that would make it more comfortable.
I think this is a wonderful thing you are doing, I am a breast cancer survivor and I have a port. This is a perfect solution. I made several pretty pockets for a hospital, they are pockets to pin inside of your shirt or blouse, it keeps the drain tubes from pulling loose.
God Bless You and again your suggestion is a diamond in the ruff.
I would like to make some of theses and donate them how do I find where to take them in my City or town?
Thank you so much for sharing this idea. I just finished 24 pillows to donate to the local cancer hospital. Although my husband lost his fight with leukemia last year, I know he would be pleased that I am doing this to help others who have a portacath and are undergoing treatment.
saw your site and decided to make some of these for our local cancer department. just made two this morning, but I’ve got the bug now and will be making more very soon. Thank you for the tutorial and all the best for the future.
What a great idea! I truly appreciate your sharing the directions. I read a comment about using it with pacemakers/defibrillators (may have been others, I skipped through them). It works for my pacemaker/defibrillators location as well. THANK YOU!
Thank you for letting me know how to help I understand the pillow part but not the Velcro part ? I am 83years old and just starting to learn to sew on my sewing machine I will give me pleasure to make these little pillow thank you and may God bless you and keep you well
Dorothy
Good for you learning a new skill! The idea is to sew the two side of the velcro into the seam of the pillow so that when you turn it right side out, the velcro straps will be there to use for fastening onto the seatbelt. I hope looking at the pictures again and laying everything out before sewing will help you figure it out. Just take it one step at a time. Good luck!
I volunteer in the oncology center in one of our large hospitals. So far I have made 30 and they go off the shelf as soon as I can make them. I bring in 10 a week and they are always gone. Patients tell me they are wonderful!
Thank you for sharing!
So glad you are doing well! Thank you for sharing your pattern. I just recently got back to sewing since taking care of my elderly parents, who have passed away within the past year. I wish that I could have made these for my dad when I was taking him for his chemotherapy for two separate cancers. This will be such a wonderful way for me to help others, and carry on their legacy of always helping others in need. May God Bless you many years of health and happiness!
I hate my shoulder seatbelt as it locks in place and digs into my shoulder badly; had a bad fall in the winter on ice and tore 4 muscles in it which requires surgery now. I am going to make them for this purpose and thank you for such a wonderful idea.
Thank you, Kathy, for sharing this awesome idea. I’ve recently started back sewing and was just looking for new ides/projects. My God sister is a Breast Cancer survivor and I remember how she would say what a discomfort her port is. I’mgoing to make some for her and contact the Breast care center in my area. Thank you again and I pray that you are still doing well.
I see you standing outside a Texas Oncology clinic. Both my husband and I were radiation and infusion clinic patients at a different T.O. site last year……at the same time! You never know what life will hand you. All the clinic staff were outstanding with their explanations and their sincere attempt to put us at ease. I am glad to hear your description of the infusion room as “strangely pleasant”. I never could quite put my finger on it…….it could have easily been a frightening, sad, and anxiety-ridden room with so many patients fighting for their lives. But the nurses set the tone, and it was a strangely pleasant atmosphere of courage, hope, and caring. Congratulations on making it to the survivor side.
Dear Kathy,
I want to thank you for such a great idea, to comfort cancer patients while they travel back and forth to their appointments. I was diagnosed with breast cancer the end of April and I had a mastectomy the end of May. I am very fortunate that I did not need any treatments after my surgery. So, when I saw your article and pattern for these pillows, I thought what a great way to give back to cancer patients who could really use them. I sew a lot and I have small pieces of fabric left over. It will be fun to see how many different colors I can make!! Thank you so much for the pattern. I wish you the best.
I had never heard of these pillows thank you for sharing this wonderful idea, and bless that elderly lady that made the one you discovered in the basket. There can’t be a person in the world who doesn’t know someone suffering or lost to Cancer.I wish you continued good health and will spread the word to my craft minded friends so we can make more of these to ease patients pain.
enjoyed the story. congrad on your health. you are making a difference. i will be praying along with you also. i would love to join you in making the pillows. where can i sent them. or do you know a place near me. i live in VA.
Thank you so much for sharing this idea. It is a project for my granddaughter’s to work on to donate to the hospitals around our communities. Again thank you.
What a wonderful idea! I am a 2+ yr colon cancer survivor & remember how much discomfort my port gave me. The seatbelt was a big irritant! I’m going to try to make some of these to drop off at my next scan/check up. I’m not that great at sewing but I will give it my best. Thanks and blessings to you!
Thank you so much for a wonderful idea! My mom is currently getting Chemo and this would be perfect for her! The port area looks so painful and bruised. I’m going to make some of these and leave at her treatment center as well!
So glad you are cancer free! And I am so excited to make port pillows to donate to the local Siteman Cancer Center in St. Louis. Thank you for your inspiration to help those in need and show we care.
I designed this in 2008. I have been sending them out for 10 years to cancer centers,. I mail out over 1200 every year across the country. I didn’t realize someone had put my pattern on Pinterest.
Hi Jenny. I found my pillow in a box of donated items in the infusion room while I was receiving chemo. There was only one. It had a note attached that included the maker’s name and address. I never saw another one in the basket on my return visits. When I was well enough, I used my little pillow to make a pattern and later put it here on my blog. Someone along the way picked up this post and put it on Pinterest. I take no credit for the idea – I tell the whole story in this post. A year or two ago, I was surprised to find a brochure left at the very oncology center where I go that used MY photos from this blog. Some girls used it for a Girl Scout Silver Award project. As a former Girl Scout leader (for 12.5 years), I was pretty miffed because they didn’t even bother to make a pillow themselves and take their own darn pictures! My photos aren’t even very good! If they had contacted me, I would have told them to use the idea, but to make some to give and to take their own pictures. When I go to deliver pillows now, there is often a basketful already there from someone else and I assume they got the idea from Pinterest/this post. Sometimes it makes me feel like someone has taken over “my territory” since it is where I receive medical care and the one place where I deliver pillows. And then I feel silly for feeling that way.
I have been nothing short of amazed that someone found my little post on my little blog and pinned it, leading to thousands of views and, presumably, thousands of pillows now giving a little comfort to cancer patients all over the world.
Perhaps the pillow I received five years ago is your legacy from years of helping others. It is amazing that you make 100 a month and have done so for 10 years!
Kindness spreads and multiplies.
Thank you, Jenny.
(I still use my pillow, but will hopefully have my port removed in the next few months. It seems like I’ve had it forever!)
I wish I had one of these when I was going through cancer treatment. I used a dish towel.
Thank you for sharing this. I am looking forward to making these pillows for the chemo ward in my local hospital. May you be blessed with abundance in your life and know that you are surrounded in love.
Thank you
I had my mother and brother in hospice at the same time in 2016, they passed within a month of each other. I make soup cozy’s for fun and the left over material I have been making the small hand pillows to donate. Thank you for the idea, I think I will make these as well!
I’m so sorry for your losses. Thank you for joining in!
What are soup cozy’s and how do you make them?
S. McNulty, this thread is for ‘portacath pillows’. Google ‘soup cozy’s’ – they hold your bowl of soup in the microwave and there are many, many patterns and instructions for making them.
Just saw this post. I hope you are still doing well. Another suggestion for the tutorial, to eliminate the hand stitching, would be to top stitch the end with the opening, catching the opening in the seam.
These pillows would be a great help to dialysis patients that have a port in their chest. The pressure of a seat belt on a port can be irritating and painful. Another benefit for me – I am 4’10” and all seatbelts cut me across my throat (not real safe!) This may help with that also. Thank you so much for this pattern. Plan to make a few for our different cars. Will also share with my dialysis pals.
Thank you so much for sharing this! My best friend died from cancer and I wish I had Known about these then. She and I sewed together for charities. I am going to make these and donate them in her memory. Thank you so much.
Oh my goodness, I just found this and I have so much fabric left over from so many projects, dog coats, cat toys, cat/dog beds, hats, etc., all for charities and I give the little scraps to Paws for a Cause to make dog beds. But, I keep the bigger pieces because I JUST KNEW that something would come along for me to use them on. Well, here it is! Thank you so much. If one is worried about getting the ends of the Velcro caught in the seams, just fold them towards each other in the middle and put a straight pin through to hold them away from the seam. No problem in catching them now:) And, if anyone is having a problem with the Velcro catching the thread and getting tangled up when sewing, just use a ball point needle! They work on so many things, I love them! I particularly like the Schmetz brand. And, if you go to JoAnn, use a coupon for the needles and filling! I will be making these by the zillion dozen! Thank you again for the idea. Michel
Hi,
I’ve been searching for some project to do and donate. I have made 100s of the tissue holders and included a scripture card in each with the tissue. Then I switched to making small fold up pouches with 7 scripture cards inside that I am going to pass out at nursing centers.
My mother knitted over 1600 baby caps for the hospitals in Florida and Georgia. I am so blessed to have found your ideas for cancer patients. I can’t wait to try making them. You have been a real blessing to many people I am sure.
Thanks, Jan
This is an awesome idea and I am going to my fabric stash as soon as I post this. I saw one of the comments about pacemaker pillows. I have one of these amazing inventions and had a problem with the seat belt. I made a few for people I know had the same problem. I used folded quilt batting to match the measurement of the “pillow” instead of stuffing it. I added velcro on each side of the rectangle after I made the rectangle out of either fleece or cotton (the quilt batting pieces go inside the pretty fabric. It slides up or down on the seatbelt and works just great. Now I have this project of yours to work on. Feels awful good to know that we are making a difference in someones day.
Kathy, it’s amazing how many people you’ve touched with this post! Allison said that someone told her that some padding for her seatbelt would make her port more comfortable and I knew just where to look for instructions. Love you and your positive outlook.
Hello. I am currently working at the first cancer center on a Navajo reservation. We have just recently opened and I am trying to gather items that our patients will need when I came across this post. Many of our patients are financially strapped, as well as the resources to buy things such as pillows for the seat belt, are not available in this area. If anyone is interested in helping to make us some of the seatbelt pillows, it would be greatly appreciated. I am the RN at the clinic. I have already bought many items for the patients out of my pocket, so I may be limited in how much I can offer to help pay for these (such as materials and shipping), but I can see what you think would be fair. Please write me at my work email if you think you might like to make some of these pillows for us. I know our patients would be so grateful. Thank you so much for your consideration.
Where are you located? I am in Alberta Canada
Thank you for sharing your instructions and story. I first saw your post about 6 months ago and made a dozen to give to a friend that volunteers at our local hospital and is a cancer survivor. They were distributed so quickly I had friends at my quilt retreat help me make more as a community service project. To date we have made about 80 of them and I just got a call to make more. Too bad so many people need them but I am willing to keep making them.
Thanks for sharing and stay strong!
So glad I found this because I want to do something to give back for the kindness we have received from the cancer center. My husband has stage four esophageal cancer. He received a crochet blanket after radiation that was beautiful. I am making the the tied fleece blankets but wanted to do more. In looking for hats for women I found patterns for seat belt pillows. What a blessing. Making the first one for my husband and then many more to give away. God bless all of you and my pray is that He gives you strength to endure all of life’s many trials.
Thank you for your easy to follow directions. I will be starting chemo soon (Stage 1 BC), and recently found out that a friend of mine will also begin treatments (Stage 2 BC). I will definitely be making one for each of us–and many more for the infusion lab. I will also be presenting these at my next quilt club meeting since they are interested in quick and easy charity projects. God bless!
Thank you for this wonderful idea. Being a breast cancer survivor I was happy to find a way to help others going through treatment in some small way. I’ve made 500 of these pillows since coming across your post. They’re so easy to make, a great way to use up scrap material and very rewarding. I’ve received some very touching and grateful emails from people who have received them. Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2020!!!!
So glad I found your post and directions. I will be getting my power port on the 24 with chemo to start the following week. Now I have a project to make for myself as I usually sew for others.
Best of luck to you!