From Cynthia Jones...

 

Ellie Handsel is truly an angel. I first learned of this remarkable woman through a friend of hers who stopped by the dialysis clinic where I was a social worker and asked if the patients were in need of "lap rugs."  I was curious, as well as appreciative, so of course said "Yes." Within a few days, about 30 of the most beautiful crocheted blankets I had ever seen arrived at the Center. Every patient received one, and each was touched by the special love that was apparent in every blanket created by Ellie and her volunteers, Ellie's Angels. Those created by Ellie had her special "seashell" design, and were particularly beautiful.

 

When I moved to another clinic, Ellie's generosity continued, and she and her volunteers handcrafted several hundred additional blankets for my new patients. Word spread among the other social workers, and they were also given blankets for their patients. Those receiving them found it difficult to choose which one they wanted, as each was so lovely!

 

When Ellie learned of my move to an Atlanta-based children's hospital, she began to create new works of art for the children there. Her generosity and love shine through each crocheted stitch of the beautiful afghans that she and her volunteers painstakingly handcraft for children who are seriously ill. Children and families who receive her gift respond with smiles and sometimes tears. One young lady with a life-threatening illness was given a beautiful pink blanket that comforts her when she needs extra warmth. Many of the patients are infants, and their parents have been so touched by these lovely gifts that they find themselves at a loss for words. The blankets are soft, luxurious and cozy, and provide a sense of security for the children--something to wrap around them when they are frightened or need an extra bit of warmth. Ellie's love is woven into the fabric of each of her works of art.   

 

I understand that it takes about 10 hours to create each blanket, and Ellie makes hundreds! Giving to those in need is what makes Ellie tick.......it's what she loves to do. She will not take payment, but will accept yarn, which she then spins into her lovely treasures. Thank you, Ellie (aka "The Smoking Needle"), for the happiness that you have brought to each and every one of the patients that have received your lovely gift.

Cynthia Jones

 

Ellie’s Angels touch more than the heart. Ellie and her "Angels" spend most of their day crocheting blankets for people who struggle with many of life's most difficult issues. Blankets are sent to people of all ages and sometimes in their darkest times. Children sit huddled in a circle at a cancer center, wrapped in their own blanket, discussing success and failures. Families have sent many wonderful letters over the years relating just how the blankets were cherished by a mother, father or a little one. Helping a husband and wife deal with breast cancer recovery, single parents that must cope with cancer and their children, My personal favorite was the "KIDS CIRCLE." Art covered the walls with wonderful colors and happy faces. Kids are here as patients also, they meet other kids going thru treatments just like themselves. Professionals help guide these little ones thru the maze of new treatments, side-effects, all the different emotions that are hard for them to understand and cope with. They sit huddled in a warm, cozy Angels blanket and talk things thru. Again, Ellie’s message rings true: “No person should ever be alone and cold.”

 

The blankets provide warmth and security as they go thru this ordeal. Senior citizens respond lovingly as they display the bright colors, remembering that this was made just for them. Families have sent many wonderful letters over the years relating just how the blankets were cherished by a mother, father or a little one. The "Thank You" letters and phone calls received become the very fuel that generates the energy to continue.

 

This much knitting requires a lot of yarn! Ellie uses about eight skeins a day by herself -- and that's just one person. Almost half the volunteers are senior citizens, and most are on a fixed income. Every skein that is donated is a big help. Acrylic yarn is used because it is machine washable, and a lot of bright colors are used, as it is a cheerful addition to a blanket. Blue is the most requested color by both men and women, with green a close second.