Stitching kindness for carers this Carers Week Ahead of Carers Week (12-18 October), staff are joining a drop-in stitch circle to create felt hearts for patient carers– an act of kindness honouring those who support
our patients every step of the way. The bright little hearts are part of the global 1000 Hearts kindness movement, symbolising comfort and support for carers. “Kindness is already at the heart of what we do,” said Barbara Lewis, Carer Support Service Manager. “A few stitches can create a beautiful gift that reminds carers they are valued.” For Heidi, whose husband was critically ill in Royal North Shore Hospital’s ICU, the gesture came at just the right time. “We’ve been married for 41 years. Seeing him that sick... my heart was breaking,” she said. “A staff member handed me a gorgeous little felt heart, and, in that moment, it gave me goosebumps. I keep it in my front pocket and hold it when I need strength. It’s like it’s glowing.” There are more than 130,000 unpaid carers in northern Sydney supporting loved ones through illness, disability, and age-related needs. While they play a vital role in patient outcomes, carers themselves face significant challenges, with wellbeing levels much lower than the average Australian adult. “These hearts are a tangible reminder carers are seen, supported and never alone,” said Barbara. To stitch a heart, visit the carers centres at Royal North Shore or Hornsby hospitals, or the Pink Ladies at Ryde Hospital. Email NSLHD-Carers@health.nsw.gov.au for a DIY pack.
Heidi, with her son Ben, holds a felt heart stitched by staff while her husband recovers in Royal North Shore Hospital’s ICU.
Each heart is a small gesture of kindness for carers supporting loved ones
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