In her residence in Whitehorse, Myra Iles arranged vibrant fabrics and bags of cotton on her dining table. Armed with a sizable sewing needle and scissors, she embarked on crafting her latest batch of feelie hearts.
Myra initiated the feelie hearts project six years back, utilizing fabrics inherited from her late mother. To date, she estimates creating nearly 3,000 of these heartfelt items.
“I can likely recall what each piece of material was used for by my mother,” shared Iles. “There’s a sentimental attachment to it, so I was waiting for a special project to utilize them.”
The feelie hearts initiative by the Hospice Yukon Society turned out to be that unique endeavor. These pocket-sized fabric hearts are lovingly handmade by volunteers and given to individuals facing grief or challenging times. Currently, the hospice faces a shortage in their supply.
Deb Higgins, the program coordinator at the hospice, expressed, “Our feelie hearts stash fluctuates. Sometimes we have an abundance, other times we run low. We welcome anyone interested in learning more or contributing by crafting a feelie heart.”
Originally conceived in 1988 by the Bridges Center for Grieving Children in the United States, feelie hearts serve as a source of comfort for young mourners to hold while sharing their stories. For two decades, the Yukon hospice has been distributing their customized versions.
Higgins emphasized the significance of these tangible reminders of support, stating, “It reassures individuals that they are not alone in their grief journey. For those seeking to offer support, presenting a feelie heart is a simple yet meaningful gesture.”
At the hospice in Whitehorse, colorful hearts are interspersed among books and decor, with various patterns available for visitors to choose from. While Higgins estimates around 200 feelie hearts are currently in stock, thousands are distributed annually. Some visitors take as many as 30 hearts at once, highlighting the ongoing need for these comforting tokens.
Janis Timm-Bottos, a retired professor specializing in creative art therapies, noted that feelie hearts exemplify art therapy, allowing individuals to find meaning and solace through creative expression.
Despite battling arthritis in her hands, Myra Iles strives to craft 30 hearts each month. The process involves cutting fabric, stitching the shape, and filling it with cotton, taking approximately 10 minutes per heart. While she continues her efforts for the hospice, Iles hopes for more volunteers to contribute to this meaningful cause.
“When I envision someone receiving a heart I’ve made, I hope it brings them peace and cherished memories,” shared Iles. “Positive memories can propel them forward and provide relief from the intense pain of grief.”
