Free prostheses for local breast cancer survivors

Local breast cancer survivors can receive customizable, knitted breast prostheses (artificial breast forms) free of charge, thanks to area knitters who have taken up the cause.
 
"I learned about the Knitted Knockers program through a Dear Abby column," says Northeast Iowa Knitted Knockers organizer Rhonda Thompson. "I was inspired when I learned how these items are changing lives for so many women and I thought – I can do this! So I started a local chapter to benefit local breast cancer survivors."
 
Handmade by volunteer knitters, Knitted Knockers are special, soft, lightweight breast prostheses that are very comfortable for women who have undergone mastectomies, lumpectomies, radiation, and/or are undergoing breast reconstruction. They are washable, adjustable, and fit inside a regular bra. The knockers can even be made from acrylic for swimmers.
 
The Blue Heron Knittery serves as the local collection point where knitters can purchase the special soft yarns at a discount and drop off their finished work. "People who live here like community projects," says Blue Heron Knittery owner Sarah Iversen. "These local knitters are really making a difference and we have a lot of people asking about this and are excited to join the project."
 
"Even if you don't know how to knit, you can help. Just $10 will help cover the cost for about three of the prostheses or postage to mail them," says Thompson, who also mails knitted knockers to other areas of the state for people who request them through the national web site.
 
To learn more about the project and the pattern, visit knittedknockers.org, or contact Rhonda at NortheastIowaKnittedKnockers@gmail.com.

 

Rhonda Thompson started the local knitted knockers chapter in Northeast Iowa