Pictured: Norma, a HammondCare North Turramurra resident, knitting alongside Mary and Margaret, who are regular visitors and part of the weekly knitting group she helped create.
Norma, a resident of HammondCare North Turramurra, has always loved creating anything with a needle and thread. Whether it’s knitting, crocheting, embroidery or sewing – growing up in a family of 11 children, she says, ‘there were always babies to knit for; now it’s for the great nieces and nephews.’
Norma also possesses an infectious sense of purpose and a big heart. It was no surprise for the local care team when she mentioned she wanted to host a weekly knitting group;
this has become a friendly space where everyone is welcome, including families and friends of residents.
Getting to know Norma couldn’t have come at a better time for Mary, who visits her husband at HammondCare North Turramurra. He receives around the clock care like Norma. Mary was looking for something to do as a restful activity on her upcoming holiday.
So, inspired by Norma, Mary knitted a beautiful matinee jacket for a team member’s new baby while on her break. Norma then taught her to crochet a decorative edging, and as the finishing touch embroidered a pair of delightful miniature roses.
Norma shared afterwards, ‘It was so rewarding to create something together for a such a special occasion as a new arrival.’
Mary’s friend Margaret is another regular visitor to North Turramurra, where her husband is also a resident. She started knitting squares for Wrap with Love, a local charity that coordinates the distribution of handmade blankets and wraps to people in need in Australia and worldwide.
This is a project close to Norma’s heart – she’s been creating squares for Wrap with Love for many years. Now Margaret brings them in to be sewn into a blanket by expert Norma, before they are delivered by Norma’s family to the popular charity.
Norma’s always been creative; she remembers fondly knitting or crocheting on the train between the Blue Mountains and Sydney in her younger days. Other commuters would stop and compliment her on her work.
Her generous spirit and her patience are also known by many – she has taught both male and female team members to knit and encourages other residents and visiting family members to engage at whatever level they are comfortable with.
‘She’s a shining beacon at North Turramurra,’ shares Pastoral Care Coordinator Katherine.
‘Following and sharing her passion has forged a community, with visiting loved ones invited to join in too. Some residents are just happy to be in the room with her, to share in the company and conversation.’
When we asked Norma what motivates her, she replied, ‘It’s about being together. We sit around the table knitting and chatting, just like I’ve done all my life.
‘It feels like family.’