Quilt #36 Monica Waitz

Monica with her quilt

Monica Waitz is the 36th recipient in The Duncan Project. A good friend here in Hawaii, Terina Holmes, recommended Monica. The two women met while the Holmes family was stationed in Colorado. One thing I have experienced here in Hawaii with these wonderful military wives is how they love, support and care for each other. These relationships, which by necessity are formed quickly, often last long after the family has moved to the next duty station.
Monica is battling breast cancer.

Terina writes:

Love this fabric

I met Monica when we were in the same ward in Colorado Springs. I was assigned to be her visiting teacher. We had both recently had our third baby. Over time, we became friends. I got to know a little about her past and discovered what a strong woman she was. Then, with 3 small ones at home, she started the BYU Pathways program. While going to school, her husband got a great job offer, and they moved to Oklahoma to their dream property. She kept up her school, as well as homeschooling her kids. A few months ago she discovered she had breast cancer. She had a double mastectomy and it now in the process of chemo therapy.

Monica seems to roll with whatever is thrown at her. She is realistic about how much it sucks, but she always has a positive attitude about whatever it is. Four babies back to back?? Great, she spent years unable to get pregnant, so she's grateful. Seven people in a tiny house? She's grateful to have a house that is all theirs. Two flat tires on the van? No big deal, she's glad to have a van to have the flat tires and a husband that will come home and take care of it. Breast cancer? Her trademark attitude doesn't fail. She gives herself a blue mohawk before her hair falls out.

I hoped Monica could receive one of these quilts to remind her that even though many of her friends and family are far away, we support and love her. A quilt is a physical reminder of not just me, but all those that love her from afar, and wish they could be closer to bring in a meal, watch her kids, or clean her house. Or hold her hand during chemo.

 I wish I knew this woman personally. I am grateful for Terina's inspiration. It is my hope that this lap quilt will provide a small measure of comfort. There is "love in the stitches" for this woman warrior.