The Heart of a Volunteer

With a generous spirit and a heart of concern, Edna Keenan has shared her time and talents with South Central Regional Medical Center for three years. Since 1998, Mrs. Keenan has crocheted 225 baby blankets for The Kids’ Place, SCRMC’s Pediatric Unit. At the start of this endeavor, Mrs. Keenan decided to make a few baby blankets out of some extra material she had left over from previous projects and send them to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. Being a strong supporter of local mission work, she reconsidered her plans while thinking of the local needs in our area and decided to donate the blankets to the Pediatric Unit at South Central.

“I am thankful to have the ability to make these blankets,” Keenan states, “and every blanket carries with it love and a prayer.”

The blankets all follow the same pattern by repeatedly connecting two granny squares. Pink, blue, yellow, and green pastels are used in the design of each blanket. In only four days, Mrs. Keenan brings warmth to a small child and a smile to the family’s face. Purchasing all the materials herself, Mrs. Keenan feels this is a small price to pay for such a worthwhile mission.

Realizing she may not always be able to make the blankets, the gracious volunteer hopes by sharing her story, it will inspire someone to take on the task when she is no longer able.

“I have always enjoyed helping others,” Keenan continued, “and I hope to motivate others to lend a helping hand to those in need.”

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