HOULTON, Maine — Staff members of Houlton Regional Hospital’s cardiopulminary services recently got an unexpected treat when they each received their own individual homemade quilt.
The quilts were a gift from Lynn and Jerry Tweedie, residents of Houlton who wanted to show their support to employees at the hospital.
Lynn Tweedie said each quilt was designed with that particular staff member in mind, using fabric and colors that matched each person.
“[I] was hoping to brighten the day for the staff, as quilts are known for warmth and made with love,” Tweedie said.
Ellen Bartlett, the infection preventionist at HRH, said the staff were touched by the gift.
“As we go through these challenging times, we are privileged to know that there are individuals who continue to spread sunshine and love,” Bartlett said. “This gesture certainly has touched each and every one of our hearts.”
The receiving of quilts has just been one of many different ways the greater Houlton community has shown support for hospital staff since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Back in March, members of the community pitched in to provide materials for the hospital to make homemade masks and gowns to keep in reserve. In July, the hospital held an “Elvis Day” to boost morale among staff members.