Infusion Center Patients Receive Afghan Donations

March 2023 – Barb Grillion’s daughter was gifted an afghan while receiving life-saving chemotherapy treatment at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Despite having a few afghans at home, her daughter, who was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, was touched by the thoughtful gift she had received from a stranger.

Generous Donation Makes an Impact

“She thought it was the most wonderful thing — that someone who didn’t even know her would take the time to make something like that for a sick little girl. So, I started doing it,” says Barb. An avid crocheter, Barb has been gifting handmade afghans to her family and friends for as long as she can remember. She now also makes lap afghans to be donated to other patients receiving infusion therapy at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, Siteman Cancer Center and Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital’s infusion center.

Her afghans bring patients warmth and comfort while receiving infusions. “It’s a feel-good blankie, and I hope it can just make them feel a little more comfortable while they’re going through this,” shares Barb. Betty Kaltenbach (pictured above), a long-term patient at the infusion center, was thrilled to receive an afghan perfectly sized for her. She keeps it at the center.

Barb encourages others to support patients however they can. “It may not be you or your family right now, but it’s someone else’s family,” says Barb. “By donating — whether your money or your time — you can show them someone cares, and that can mean so much to them.” Thank you, Barb, for your generous donation to our patients.

Make a Difference Today

Many of our programs are offered to patients at no cost thanks to the generosity of others. Let us help match your philanthropic interests to areas of need at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital and Progress West Hospital. To learn more or to make a gift online visit BJCStCharlesCounty.org/giving.