All pediatric surgery patients at the NHRMC Surgical Pavilion now receive a custom pediatric surgical cap thanks to three New Hanover Regional Medical Center employees. Surgical caps are worn by both patients and surgical staff as part of operating room protocol. Janene Becker, Wanda Bass, and Vanessa Van Gilder have organized “Sewing Sundays” at their homes, in which volunteers from their team come and help make surgical caps for pediatric patients.
Last fall, Janene was inspired by a similar project she saw online that started in a hospital in Pennsylvania. The group was soliciting seamstresses to donate fabric, time and supplies to help make surgical caps for their pediatric patients. Janene immediately brought this idea to her co-worker, Wanda, and the manager of the Nunnelee Pediatric Specialty Clinics, Vanessa, in hopes that a project like this could start at NHRMC.
Since then, “Sewing Sundays” have produced 300 pediatric surgical caps. Physicians and surgeons review the caps to ensure they meet quality restrictions and guidelines. Children who come to NHRMC’s Pediatric Surgical Unit for surgery will get to pick out their custom cap.
“As part of a child’s care team, it is our job to make them feel as comfortable as we can at NHRMC. The skull caps are something that the children are able to keep with them throughout their surgery and take home with them after their stay at NHRMC. ” said Janene.
The “Sewing Sundays” group, currently comprised of nurses, doctors, administrative staff, and volunteers is seeking additional support to ensure this project becomes a long-term staple at the hospital.
“You do not need to know how to sew to join this group. There are jobs for everyone,” said Wanda. “It is inspiring to see our hobby put a smile on children’s faces.”
If you are interested in participating in “Sewing Sundays” or donating fabric and materials please contact Janene Becker at [email protected].