Elkins, WV — When Chris Davis and Penny Saville attended Davis Medical Center’s grand opening event and the survivor’s balloon launch, they knew they wanted to be involved and help local cancer patients in some way. Through their group known as “Chemo Granny’s”, the two have since hand-crafted a number of beautiful knitted caps and donated them to the Davis Health System Foundation Patient’s Assistance Fund.
Chemo Granny’s, which is based out of Winchester, VA, has donated over 3,000 caps to 22 facilities in 9 states over the last 3 years. Their mission is simple, to give back to cancer patients as they fight the good fight against the disease. Davis said, “Many patients have been touched when they receive a handmade hat from someone they have never met. It can help to bring comfort to a person during a very difficult time.”
Chemo Granny’s is a non-profit organization comprised of volunteers who make the handmade caps. The items are provided free of charge to any patient going through chemo and/or radiation therapy.
“Our patients will love wearing these wonderful caps. They will brighten their lives with love and kindness,” said Cancer Center Nurse Navigator Angie Shockey, RN, OCN.
“We’re fortunate for the support of Chemo Granny’s, our local Women’s Club, Sandy Tolin and many others who provide for our patients. Through many years of cancer patient care, I understand the importance of compassion and kindness as part of the healing process.”
The hats are made for men, women and children and are available in a variety of sizes, patterns and colors.
Chemo Granny’s spokeswoman Penny Saville said, “All of the hats are given to cancer units free of cost. Whatever we can do to bring comfort to cancer patients is a blessing, not only to them but to us as well.”
Donald Fleming, M.D., Director of Hematology and Oncology at the Cancer Center reflected on the impact to the patients. “Cancer patients feel touched by the support the caps represent from others. In addition, those with cancer must commit many hours of time to complete their therapy and they can see that someone also committed many hours of their time on their behalf.”
The group is always looking for new volunteers to assist with the program. Persons who crochet, knit or sew and who would like to be part of Chemo Granny’s, can contact Chris Davis at 1.540.533.0652. Financial support through donations is also always welcome.
“We ask members to commit to making one hat per month. There’s no fee to join,” said Saville. “We take donations of soft yarn, gift cards or monetary donations. No matter how small the donation, it will make a big difference in the life of a cancer patient.”
For more information about the group, contact Chris Davis at 1.540.533.0652. They are located at 110 Hudson Avenue, Winchester, VA, 22603.
