Crochets afghans and baby blankets
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| Jane Lenhart crochets a baby blanket for a WellSpan staff member, while Carol Berkheimer, R.N., at York Gynecologic Oncology, talks to her. The only charge is the cost of the material. Lenhart asks people to make a donation to the Cancer Patient Help Fund instead of paying for the crocheted items. |
Undergoing five hours of chemotherapy for five consecutive days every month gives Jane Lenhart of Red Lion plenty of time to fill.
Lenhart keeps busy by crocheting afghans, baby blankets, stuffed animals and dish cloths. Many people refer to her simply as “The Crochet Lady.”
Lenhart receives three hours of chemotherapy at the Women’s Imaging Center, goes home for a few hours and returns to WellSpan York Hospital for two additional hours of treatment.
Over the past 18 months, Lenhart has made items for a number of staff members. The only charge for the items is the cost of the materials. She can crochet a full-size afghan in three weeks and a baby blanket in one week.
“It’s a good use of my time and talent,” said Lenhart. “It’s not a mindless task, and it’s very relaxing. I love watching the patterns emerge.”
The 59-year-old said she has been crocheting as long as she can remember. She recalls watching her grandmother and mother crocheting and simply learned by watching. Lenhart said her crocheting always seems to attract attention.
“I enjoy crocheting items for WellSpan staff members,” she said. “They are all so kind, helpful and supportive. They try to make all the patients as comfortable as possible.”
Lenhart also praised the staff and physicians for explaining what’s happening and what the next steps will be. She said they are always open to questions and feedback.
“The staff is wonderful. They help the time to go by as quickly as possible. We spend a lot of time together, so it’s easy to get to know each other.”
The crocheting requests help Lenhart stay abreast of staff members’ latest news, whether it’s a new grandchild, new child or a new niece or nephew.
Carol Berkheimer, R.N., at York Gynecologic Oncology, said, “Jane is a very generous person with her time and talent. Everyone benefits from her work.”
Lenhart requests that people make a donation to the Cancer Patient Help Fund instead of paying for the crocheted items.
“My husband and I believe in the concept of paying it forward,” she said. “I appreciate everything the staff and the physicians have done for me.”