Ottawa Woman Crafts Over 1,000 Blankets for Cancer Patients

An Ottawa woman has dedicated over a decade to providing warmth and comfort to cancer patients by crocheting and donating blankets. Ruth Shevel recently achieved a remarkable milestone, completing more than 1,000 blankets for those undergoing treatment at the Ottawa Hospital General Campus. Her initiative, known as Project Comfort Crochet, aims to ensure that patients feel supported during their difficult journeys.

The inspiration for Shevel’s project stems from personal tragedy; she lost her daughter, Kelly, to cancer 25 years ago. “She was a bubbly girl. She had an infectious laugh, and she was very much a family girl,” Shevel recalls. This loss ignited a passion in her to help others facing similar battles.

Shevel has been crocheting and knitting for approximately six decades, using her skills to create comfort for those in need. Each day, she dedicates between 8 to 10 hours to her craft, finding joy in the process. “It just relaxes me,” she explains. “It’s just fun to see how it’s going to turn out… it’s just something I just enjoy doing so much.”

Each blanket is not just a piece of fabric; it carries a message of love and comfort for both patients and their families. Shevel emphasizes the need for warmth and care during such challenging times, stating, “It is because it’s cancer. I just feel that they need the warmth. They need the love. They need the care. Because that’s a terrible disease and it hits everybody.”

The impact of Shevel’s work is deeply felt by those who receive her blankets. Teresa Shevel, Ruth’s other daughter, expresses her pride in her mother’s dedication. “I think it’s amazing to have the commitment to be able to do that many blankets and donate them consistently every several months. It’s pretty amazing,” she says. She notes that many cancer patients experience chills during treatment, and the blankets provide essential warmth.

While some materials are donated, Shevel covers most of the costs herself. She remains committed to her mission, stating, “Until I can’t do it anymore. There’s no real goal. It’s just as long as I can do it, I intend to do it.”

Through her heartfelt efforts, Ruth Shevel continues to make a significant difference in the lives of cancer patients, reminding them they are not alone in their battles.