Knit a vestie for a chestie
The NPO has taken up a challenge to make and provide 1 500 vests by midnight, March 31.
While most babies are typically born after 37 to 40 weeks of developing in their mother’s womb, premature babies didn’t quite get the memo about their due date. So, they come into the world a little earlier than expected.
There are many mothers who might not even reach the third trimester, and needless to say they aren’t always prepared for the unexpected birth of their premature bundle of joy.
In support of these mothers – some of whom might come from a disadvantaged background, Light a Sparkle recently launched a project called ‘Vesties for Chesties’. According to local Light a Sparkle ambassador, René van der Merwe they are collecting small knitted vests which will be donated to the Tygerberg Hospital’s NICU unit to keep their preemies warm.
Light a Sparkle is an NPO that provides assistance to organisations and charities in need through the mobilisation of its Sparkle Ambassador network by providing donations or volunteer support.
“These tiny vests are pulled over the babies’ heads and tied at the sides. The reason for the ties is so it’s easier for the nurses to put it on the babies without disturbing the tubes, thus making the manoeuvre as comfortable as possible for the tiny tots,” René explained.
She went on to say that the NPO has taken up a challenge to make and provide 1 500 vests by midnight, March 31. So far René managed to collect a large number of vests from community members who enjoy knitting and are eager to contribute to the cause.
“Since I enjoy knitting this is another great cause to be involved in, in more than one way. And since we have many initiatives on the go, it’s important for community members to know that they are not limited to making these vests,” she explained.
“They are also welcome to donate items such as beanies, booties, blankets (or even small knitted squares we will use to make a blanket), teddies, soft toys, pre-loved clothing, drawstring care bags and dignity bibs to name just a few.”
Even though their current focus is the Vesties for Chesties Challenge for Tygerberg Hospital, they also donate to various other hospitals all over the country as well as rape-victim centres, abandoned-baby sanctuaries, orphanages, homeless shelters, poor communities and old age homes among others.
René went on to explain that all vests received after March 31 won’t form part of the challenge, but will still be donated to local NICUs.
If you wish to find out more about the initiative, or need the knitting pattern for the tiny vests, feel free to contact René on 083 448 8488 or Janene on 083 212 5276. Knitted items or donations can be delivered or collected by René or the relevant ambassador.
Readers can also visit the NPO’s Facebook page by searching for Light a Sparkle.
