Greenholme House Care Home Presents Palliative Care Hearts to Leeds Cancer Centre

Greenholme House Care Home has proudly presented 25 pairs of hand knitted palliative care hearts to Leeds Cancer Centre at the Bexley Wing, St James’s Hospital, thanks to the dedication of the Greenholme House Knit & Natter Club.

The hearts were lovingly created by residents, team members, and members of the local community. Palliative care hearts were first introduced during the Covid pandemic, when families were unable to be together at the end of life. One heart is placed with the person who has passed away, while the matching heart is given to their loved one, a symbolic way of staying connected even when apart.

A small group from Greenholme travelled to Leeds Cancer Centre to hand over the hearts, including Elizabeth, the Well-being & Activities Lead; Jean Schofield, resident; Alison McPhail, Client Liaison Manager; and Wendy Bywell from the Burley Cricket Club and Community Knitters. They were welcomed by Ward Clerk, Teresa Foster, who accepted the donation on behalf of the centre.

Elizabeth commented on the visit, saying, “It was a wonderful thing to do. This cause is particularly close to our hearts, making the donation even more meaningful.”

Alison shared a personal connection to the project, commenting, “I received a knitted heart when my dad passed, and I still carry it with me. Being able to give that comfort to others means so much.”

Resident, Jean Schofield said she found the experience “amazing”, while Wendy from Burley Cricket Club and Community Knitters said she was “really moved” by the gesture.