MONROE — While brainstorming ideas with her mother and sister in their van for her Silver Award for Girl Scouts, 13-year-old Maggie Patterson couldn’t think of anything she was interested in.
Then, inspired by her aunt’s recent battle with breast cancer, Patterson decided she want to do something for cancer patients, which led her to tying blankets.
Patterson, a member of Girl Scout Troop 3459, has spent roughly 10 hours making about 10 blankets, which will be donated to the oncology department at Monroe Clinic, Relay for Life and Justice for a Cure. The Silver Award is a community project that requires a minimum of 50 hours, which Patterson has until September to complete.
Patterson’s 12-year-old sister Molly, a member of Troop 3092, decided to follow her sister’s lead and make tie scarves for cancer survivors. Even though Molly doesn’t have to complete her award for about another two years, she’s already made a dozen scarves. Each scarf and blanket has a sewn-on label with the girls’ names on them.
Patterson decided to give her completed tie blanket to her aunt, Amy Werkheiser, Cedarville, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in May.
When Patterson handed her aunt the blanket, Werkheiser said she felt blessed.
“I’m glad she’s helping others through the blankets and helping them find comfort for the journey,” Werkheiser said.
Patterson said the experience has been meaningful and rewarding.
“The best part is seeing the blankets be put to use by the patients,” Patterson said. “I think it will be very sentimental to the people that receive one.”
The sisters, who have been a part of the Girl Scout program since they were in kindergarten, have written letters to local businesses asking for donations for fleece.
The best part is seeing the blankets be put to use by the patients,.Maggie Patterson
Kiwanis and Justice for a Cure were quick to respond with some donated material. The girls currently have enough fleece to make about 15 more blankets.
The Patterson sisters hosted a work night inviting other Girl Scout members and volunteers at the United Methodist Church in Monroe Jan. 16. They are planning to have more work nights where people can help but haven’t yet set dates.
The girls are also hoping during Christmastime they can donate blankets to families of Green County through the Monroe Woman’s Club.
Werkheiser, who is now cancer free, holds her blanket as a reminder of the caring people can provide in a difficult time.
“It’s just nice to be thought of and to know that people support you as you deal with the illness,” Werkheiser said. “I’m glad the scouting program in general promotes helping and showing compassion for others.”
