Knitting love for tiny fighters one stitch at a time, Beanies for Beings volunteers are hard at work as they dedicate their time and efforts to creating simple yet very comforting garments for premature babies in support of World Prematurity Day.
Northriding, South Africa (30 October 2024) – Babies are always a blessing, but some tiny tots enter the world a little too early than the expected nine months.
Every year, on 17 November, World Prematurity Day, people around the world take a moment to highlight the delicate lives of premature babies. These tiny fighters, born too soon, face countless challenges as they battle to survive.
With the annual awareness day just around the corner, the members and volunteers of Beanies for Beings are hard at working knitting away and creating special items for little ones.
According to the organisation beanies, booties, bonding squares and octopi are important in supporting the healthy development of far too many babies who are born prematurely.
“Some government hospitals report a 60% mortality rate of preemies as they do not have sufficient incubators and equipment for these little ones.
“Bonding squares are designed to assist in the bonding process between Mom and Baby through smell when they cannot physically touch,” shares Beanies for Beings.
Preemie octopi (a cotton crocheted octopus) is also said to bring comfort to babies. The tentacles are a reminder of the umbilical cord, as well as offer an alternative for babies pulling at their tubes and monitors.
“Studies have proved that preemie babies when cuddling the octopi showed improved breathing, regulation of heartbeat as well as an increase in oxygen levels in their blood.”
Beanies for Beings is participating in this worthy cause in support of Beanies 4 Babies, a fellow organisation founded and run by a doctor, Johané Palko. Beanies 4 Babies supplies knitted and crocheted beanies and booties to numerous hospitals countrywide in the fight against hypothermia in neonates.
These simple yet powerful creations have a profound impact on the lives of premature babies.
How you can get involved
If knitting happens to be one of your talents you are welcome to join the movement in providing much-needed comfort and support to preemies.
Your knitted and crocheted goodies (or wool donation) could very well save a life!
Drop-offs can be made at the following points no later than 2 November:
- Licorice – Entrance 1, Randridge Mall
- Wonderland Pre-Primary 213 Cornelis Street. Fairland.
- The Beanies for Beings Charity Shop – 482 Boundary Road, Northriding
For pattern ideas and more information, email beaniesforbeings@outlook.com
Sources: Beanies for Beings
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