Scouts present cancer care packets to Putnam County Hospital

Tuesday, April 19, 2016
Members of Girl Scout Troop 2276 presented cancer care packets to the Putnam County Hospital Cancer Care Unit. The girls interviewed cancer patients and survivors to determine what items would be most helpful to them. The quilts in this picture were handsewn with the help of Dorinda Emberton of Sew Many Stitches. From left: Allison Staples, Brittany Ricketts, Kinzee Wilson and Grace Timm. (Banner Graphic/CHELSEA MODGLIN)

There were tears and smiles when Putnam County Girl Scout Troop 2276 presented care packets to the Putnam County Hospital Cancer Care Unit recently.

Accompanied by parents and troop leaders, Grace Timm, 12, and eighth-graders Allison Staples (14), Brittany Ricketts (13) and Kenzie Wilson (13) filled the cancer unit lobby with large, colorful bags full of Biotene, ginger gum, head scarves and coloring books.

Since July 2015, the four-member troop has logged a total of 250 hours to interview cancer patients and survivors, research pricing and assemble the care packets.

Under the patient guidance of Dorinda Emberton of Purdue's Extension Homemaker Club, Sew Many Stitches, the girls also hand sewed quilts for each of the packets.

"This is one of the most thoughtful projects I've seen in a long time," PC Hospital CEO Dennis Weatherford said.

The girls' hard work and long hours will be put toward earning their silver award, but their devotion has other motives. They were inspired to do the project when Wilson's mother, who is one of the troop leaders, was diagnosed with cancer a year ago.

"We decided to help some of the smaller hospitals out," Wilson said.

And they certainly have.

"We've never had anything like this that is so specific to our patients' needs," Nurse Manager Ronda McCammack said. "I know our patients will be excited."

The quilt material was donated by Sew Many Stitches and Avon Quiltary. Other contributors were Goody's and Walmart in Greencastle, the Putnam County Community Foundation, Karma for Cara and Colts Student All-Star.

"It was so touching to know that there are all these people around the community who want to support you and your cause," Wilson said.

The girls have also presented their project to the Putnam County Community Foundation Fall Grant Breakfast, the Putnam County Girl Scout Rally and the Putnam County Girl Scout Service Unit. Greencastle Mayor Bill Dory has also asked them to present their project in the near future.

Thanks to the Putnam County Girl Scout Service Unit, the project will continue as annual contribution to Putnam County Hospital. The girls have also been distributing brochures to other organizations in hopes of their involvement.

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