Never forget that sometimes individual effort can inspire a community and make a difference in the world.
Such is the case with local crafter Linda Daviduik, who crocheted a total of 205 prayer cloths and cards to benefit breast cancer research in Manitoba and those suffering from it.
Each package that Daviduik assembled comes with a crocheted prayer cloth, a laminated prayer card and a pink ribbon pin to wear.
“The prayer cloth idea came from a gift I received from a neighbour who made prayer cloths for sale,” said Daviduik. “I immediately thought, ‘why can’t I make prayer cloths that are pink for breast cancer research?’”
When she presented the idea to where she wanted to donate them in Winnipeg, Daviduik noted they were thrilled with the idea, took what she already had made and gave her two large rolls of pink ribbon to make more.
“I said I wouldn’t mind making them but I couldn’t sell that many in Swan River as our community is small,” she said.
This happened prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and once the pandemic affected everyone’s lives, Daviduik had lots of time to make her 205 prayer cloth packages.
Daviduik was sure to mention her friends that helped out with providing some of the supplies or donate to the cause, such as Adam Maksuta, manager of Ace Hardware at the time, who donated two balls of pink yarn. Rachael Stober, owner of Bee Gee’s Stationery also donated paper, printing and laminating services for the prayer cards, and other friends donated money to buy the rest. Friends who donated $10 each include: Annie Zaretzky, Elizabeth Yablonski, Helen Klimuk, Tammy Zaretzky-Denischuk, Mary Jenner, Helen Proskie, Helen Martinussen and Dorothy Dixon.
“I am so grateful for caring friends who reached out to help me with this project,” said Daviduik.
She estimates that if the prayer cloth packages are able to be sold at $4 each, that could raise $800 for breast cancer research.
Daviduik is an avid crafter who has had projects taken all over Canada.
She also spends lots of time volunteering and giving back. She has volunteered as a Heart and Stroke coordinator as well as involved in coordinating fall suppers, rodeo luncheons and the Loving Hearts event.