The Duncan Project: April 2020

Sunday, April 5, 2020

Quilt #90 Kari Slade donated by Mary Duke

Kari Slade with her quilt

Quilt #90 was given to Kari Slade by Mary Duke. Kari is battling breast cancer during the turbulent time. Kari and Mary came to know each other as Kari teaches the body pump and spin classes Mary takes at the gym.

Due to social distancing concerns, Mary left this quilt on the doorstep with a beautiful note, part of which reads:

Kari, you have always been such an inspiration to me and you continue to be.

An inspiration in physical conditioning, an inspiration in beauty, an inspiration in kindness and the love you share with all, and in our little chats at the gym, an inspiration of faith. Your positive attitude is such a light to all of us.

You are in my prayers often...

A friend gave me the pattern and fabric for the quilt top. The quilting (stitching) was done by a lady named Donna Sine. I asked her to put a weight lifter, cyclist and a runner on the top white stripe. They are a symbol of your strength. Kari, you strengthen all who meet you! I also wanted a little pink breast cancer ribbon somewhere on the quilt. It symbolizes what you are overcoming.The catawampus design running throughout most of the quilt are the curves that life throws at us. The flowers at the bottom represent spring, a newness of life, and of course, the big heart represents YOUR BIG HEART!..

As I made this quilt, I thought of you and prayed for you often, and a quote came to my mind several times as I thought of you. "Occasionally, weep deeply over the life you hoped would be. Grieve the losses. Then wash your face, trust God, and embrace the life you have."

I love you.

Upon receiving the quilt Kari contacted Mary and sent the photo at the top. She noted that she has read the letter numerous times and each time it brings tears to her eyes.

This quilt reminds me how we are all connected and the goodness we share affects us all. In the stitches of this quilt are prayers for hope and healing. Prayers that we all need today. Kari, all those associated with The Duncan Project add our Love in the Stitches...

The Beginning

The Duncan Project was conceived one day shortly after Duncan's passing while I was out walking the dog. At the time, I was praying and pleading for understanding and acceptance. One of the tender mercies I received was a very clear answer that it was God's will and that "it's okay." Armed with that knowledge, I looked for a way to process my own grief, while turning my heart to God and honoring Duncan. To learn the lessons Heavenly Father has for us and in response increase my love and support to those in need.

I remember distinctly two separate occasions in my life of great distress where I received a handmade quilt. These were not merely blankets for warmth (which in one instance was very much needed) but works of art. The best loving hands have to offer and I felt deeply comforted. I could feel the love in the stitches.

My mind started to contemplate if these quilts could be created as a comfort and a way to show love to those in time of joyful or difficult transition. Would this also be the means of healing for my broken heart? The Spirit whispered yes. I have invited close friends and family to join me in making quilts and identifying recipients. In this blog, I will tell the stories of givers and receivers. So the journey of a 100 quilts begins....