The recently completed Mornington Island Renal Unit has received a heartwarming donation of eight beautifully crafted quilted blankets from Mackay artisan Pam Barfield.

These blankets, specifically made for patients undergoing dialysis, are a generous gift designed to provide comfort and warmth during their treatments.

Pam Barfield shared her inspiration behind this thoughtful donation.

"I was talking with a friend who works in the North West about what is required for some patients on renal dialysis, and I learned that some need treatment three times a week for up to five hours,” Ms Barfield said.

“When my father was unwell, he enjoyed having a colourful blanket and something handmade; it made him feel loved and cared for. I thought that maybe some of the people receiving dialysis would also like to know that other people are thinking about them and wishing them well."

In selecting the designs and colours for the blankets, Pam said she decide the blankets should be colourful and unique so she chose different materials and tried to find Australian-themed patterns.

“I even managed to include some inspirational words on a couple of blankets, which was fun,” she said.

Each blanket was crafted with some specifics in mind - they were to be given to individual patients, made unique with designs for both male and female preferences, and designed to be easily washable and durable. The blankets were also sized to cover someone in a reclining chair, with some lined with wadding for extra warmth.

For others interested in making similar contributions, Pam offers some advice.

"There are at least another forty people in the North West who receive dialysis across several units, and the renal team would love to have more blankets to give out, please contact them if you would like to share your talents,” she said.

Nurse Unit Manager Renal, Sichit Simon, expressed his gratitude for Pam's generous donation.

"We are incredibly grateful for these beautiful blankets,” he said.

“They make a huge difference to our patients, bringing a bit of home comfort into the sterile hospital environment. It shows that our community cares, and it means a lot to the patients and staff alike."

The Mount Isa Hospital and its Renal Unit extend their heartfelt thanks to Pam Barfield for her thoughtful and generous contribution, which will undoubtedly bring warmth and comfort to many patients at the Mornington Island Renal Unit.

For anyone wishing to be involved in the blanket drive, please contact Renal Social Worker Leanne on 07 4764 1539.