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In December of 2003, my 14 year old daughter underwent laparascopic surgery for a perforated appendix. Three days later she developed an abscess under her liver and had to be opened up. We spent 10 days in the hospital. She was released on Christmas Eve.
While in the hospital, my daughter was showered with gifts from many different organizations. That was truly wonderful!
After returning home I began to feel a burden for the parents of children in the hospital. I had stayed all 10 days with my daughter sleeping on the floor, in chairs, on cots, etc. I felt like I had to do something for these parents. Many programs are already in place for the children, but what about the parents?
The ladies in my church had expressed interest in starting a crocheting class. I decided we could put these two together. We are now crocheting "mug rugs" (coasters). We put these mug rugs in mugs along with PHONE CARDS, travel size tissues, flavored tea bags, coffee singles, gum, crackers, etc. Some of the ladies even include a small something for the child i.e. candy, small toys, etc. The phone cards are the clincher to me. When my daughter was in the hospital, her roommate's mother gave me a phone card so I could stay in contact with family and friends. Although I had a cell phone, those cannot always be used in the hospital. Many families do not have cell phones and it is very important to be able to stay in touch with loved ones at this time. Not only to keep them informed of health situations but also to get support and comfort when it seems you cannot go on.
This ministry has truly been a blessing so far. We have made one delivery in April and have another one scheduled in July. The first delivery was received wonderfully by the hospital staff and parents. The hospital staff informed us that this is the first time anyone has thought of the parents or guardians. They can't wait for us to come back.
Oh, by the way, we decided on the name Deeds of Dorcas from a Bible verse. Acts 9:36 "Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did." Our group meets twice a month on a regular basis. During our meetings, we crochet the mug rugs. One week before a delivery, we stuff the mugs and wrap them in cellophane tied with a ribbon. On delivery day, we pack the mugs in wicker baskets and go from room to room with a hospital staff member and hand out the mugs to parents, grandparents, guardians or whoever is staying with the child in the room.
DeAnna Davis
Deeds of Dorcas
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