Helping in different ways

It’s easy to think that you have to be a medical professional to help Open Heart International, but there’s actually a whole range of other ways people contribute to the program. From admin to fundraising, we couldn’t achieve the things we do in Rwanda without friends helping every step of the way.

One innovative little program that has sprung up to support OHI is the Cuddle Cushions. Started by Leigh Evans-Bullock from the Lucky Bean Collective, this is a fantastic initiative that anyone can get involved with (provided you have some basic sewing or craft ability, which I don’t.)

After surgery the little patients are often given a pillow to hold over their chest for protection and a soft toy for comfort. This is where Leigh’s idea for Cuddle Cushions came about. Designed for the dimensions of young patients, it’s a cushion and doll in one. According to Leigh, “You don’t have to be a heart surgeon to help repair a heart: if you have a sewing machine and a bit of fabric you can make a difference to both the physical and mental health of these children.”

We could not agree more. We are so grateful for a massive network of people that help cater for these needs and are sometimes overwhelmed with the donations of handmade gifts we receive.