At Stepping Stone Hospice, kindness often finds expression in the most unexpected forms, whether in a gentle word, a warm smile, or, in this case, the soft touch of a handmade gift.

Recently, the Hospice received a meaningful donation from Lee Fourie, whose hands and heart have crafted something far beyond fabric and thread.

She lovingly created a collection of fiddling aids, including blankets, aprons, pillows, and cuffs to bring comfort, engagement, and dignity to the Hospice’s patients.

Stories of care

Lee said that each piece in her collection carries a story of care, patience, and deep empathy for those walking the delicate journey of illness.

For Lee, this project is more than an act of charity; it is a mission to bring warmth and connection into the lives of those who need it most.

She has poured thought into every stitch, ensuring that each item serves both a practical and emotional purpose.

“Understanding that many elderly patients have delicate and thinning skin, I went to great lengths to select only the softest and most soothing materials. The fabrics are gentle to the touch, providing comfort and a sense of security and calm,” she said.

The designs incorporate interactive elements such as zips, buttons, ribbons, and Velcro tabs. Velcro tabs are small details that encourage movement, coordination, and fine motor skills.

These features can help patients maintain independence and dexterity, offering both stimulation and reassurance in moments of restlessness.

Attention to detail

For Lee, every detail matters. When she learned that Stepping Stone also cares for children, she adapted her designs to meet their needs.

Taking the time to measure wheelchairs, she created custom lap blankets that can be securely attached, ensuring that the young patients experience comfort wherever they go.

She also included a range of vibrant, sensory-rich fidget toys that have already brought visible joy and engagement to the children’s unit. The smiles these items inspire speak louder than words.

Her sensitivity extended to the adult ward, where many patients are living with dementia.

Drawing on her own life experiences, Lee understood the power of touch and activity in maintaining both mental and physical function.

“For those who struggle with memory loss, the fiddling aids provide gentle stimulation, helping them to stay engaged and grounded. The soft textures and familiar motions evoke a comforting sense of routine while promoting movement that strengthens fingers and hands,” Lee said.

Stepping Stone said that for patients, these aids become more than tools; they are companions that restore a sense of dignity and purpose to daily life.

A pause of kindness

Lee’s generosity did not end with her own efforts.

Her mother, Sarah Engelbrecht, and her close friend, Anneline Roestorff, have been instrumental in supporting the project.

Together, they have spent hours cutting, stitching, and assembling, ensuring that every detail reflects the love and thoughtfulness behind the gesture.

All the donated items were created through Lee’s personal funding and with the help of a few kind-hearted contributors who share her vision.

These creations will remain permanently at Stepping Stone Hospice, becoming lasting sources of comfort for both patients and their families.

The Hospice has expressed gratitude for Lee’s extraordinary thoughtfulness, acknowledging the far-reaching impact of her work.

“Beyond the soft fabrics and colourful designs lies something truly profound. A reminder that compassion can be felt, seen, and held. In a world that often moves too quickly, Lee’s donation is a pause of kindness, a moment of human connection that reminds every patient they are valued and loved,” said Tersia Burger, the founder and CEO of the Stepping Stone Hospice.