Masks, Smiles and Pillowcases for Children Traumatized by Cancer

Debbie from DeBug models a homemade mask

Our Debbie is quite a seamstress. To help children experiencing the trauma of hospitalization, she has been making pillowcases for Ryan’s Case for Smiles for years.

With social distancing, Debbie saw another way to help. She and Kristen are sewing masks! These masks are free to members of our community in our Carson Valley store. Debbie asks that you consider donating to Ryan’s Case for Smiles in return.

According to their website, Ryan’s Case for Smiles was founded in 2007 to help children who are hospitalized with cancer. Research shows that 20% of children and 30% of their mothers suffer symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder from hospitalization. These rates are similar to those experienced by U.S. war veterans serving since the Vietnam War. Through experiences that reduce stress, trauma can be minimized and outcomes can be improved. Fun, whimsical pillowcases give children an emotional boost and to remind them that their illness does not define them.

To honor the long history of American women sewing and knitting to help in times of strife and war, Debbie and Kristen are contributing in two ways. Call our Carson Valley store at 775-782-0303 beginning Thursday, April 16, for availability and to set your pick-up time. We’ll reserve your mask for 24 hours. The store is located at 1560 U.S. HWY 395 N. #C in Minden, and please consider donating to Ryan’s Case for Smiles while you’re there!

Want to make your own mask? Click on the link below to download the pattern we’re using that is sanctioned by Renown Health!

Renown-Sanctioned-Mask_Pattern_With_Instructions

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