Stephanie Schwabe crochets hats for babies and toddlers being cared for at Christchurch Hospital.
Over the past two years, she has lovingly created and donated 250 of her cosy and colourful beanies.
"After my wonderful aunt-in-law departed this world, I learnt that she had been knitting items for the hospital for years, right up until just before she died.
"I thought that was such a lovely idea and I wanted to carry it on.
"I can’t knit to save myself, but I have been crocheting since I was young, so decided to start making little beanies.
"I started back in May 2022 with just baby hats, but then my friend, who’s a nurse, suggested I try making toddler-sized ones too.
"Ultimately, I love feeling that I’m putting a smile on a wee one’s face by warming their little heads or brightening theirs and their family’s day. Hopefully both!”
Stephanie began with some leftover wool she had at home.
She has had a few donations over the years but mostly shops for it at her local Rangiora $2 shop, or wherever she can source cheap yarn.
Most of the hats go to the Children’s Emergency Care (CEC) department.
CEC registered nurse Rosemary Tyrrell said Stephanie's creations are beautifully made and parents are delighted to receive them.
Nurse educator Ronelle van Dongen agreed: "Stephanie puts in wonderful effort to create these gorgeous hats and they always get used.
"She certainly goes above and beyond to care for children in our hospital."
