Auxiliary makes turbans from T-shirts for local cancer patients

NRMC Auxiliary members diligently prepare materials and sew turbans. These turbans are given to cancer patients through the NRMC Community Education department. --submitted photo

Nevada Regional Medical Center Auxiliary members are donating their time and talents to produce turbans for cancer patients. These turbans are created from T-shirts, using a pattern brought to the volunteers by fellow Auxiliary member, Marilyn Thomas.

Individuals in the volunteer group started sewing these turbans in the spring of this year. Thomas organized the first "group-sewing" which was held in July. They plan to meet again to sew more in September. The turban-makers brought all the necessary materials and sewing machines to the hospital. Some ladies cut out the pattern while others sewed, working as a team throughout the day. These turbans have also been created and donated to NRMC by the Bushwhacker Quilt Guild. The pattern is available to anyone who would like to help make them.

"The turbans are various colors. We make two kinds, some dressier and some to wear around at home. I think they're a convenience and hopefully, a confidence builder," Martha Wood, Auxiliary president, said.

After the turbans are finished, they are given to Stacey Wilson in the NRMC Community Education department. Wilson is able to distribute these one-of-a-kind hats to cancer patients whose treatments are causing hair-loss. The hospital also hosts "Look Good... Feel Better" classes and distributes kits including nutritional supplements, make-up and wigs donated by the American Cancer Society.

Many resources are available in the area to cancer patients receiving treatment.

For a list of these resources or for a turban pattern, call the NRMC Community Education Department at (417) 448-3622.