In the heart of Immingham, Joyce Bone, a 97-year-old woman, is making a significant difference to the lives of newborns and dementia patients with her dedicated knitting. From her home, she has single-handedly crafted nearly 700 garments, which encompass lovely infant clothing and sensory-stimulating Twiddlemuffs, all bound for local hospitals. As her 98th birthday in May approaches, Joyce shows no signs of slowing in her mission.
Twiddlemuffs, remarkable items crafted by Joyce, are knitted muffs adorned with a variety of accents like buttons, ribbons, beads, and zips. They are designed to offer a calming tactile experience for individuals living with dementia. These articles provide crucial visual and sensory stimulation, aiding in soothing both active hands and minds.
Joyce articulates her passion with warmth: “It relaxes me and keeps me going. I recommend anyone to do it.” Her friend, Pat Armstrong, assumes an essential function in this charitable project, confirming that Joyce’s creations are delivered to hospitals in Grimsby, Scunthorpe, and Goole. Pat says, “Joyce discovered that I donated to the hospital and started sending me items. She has really donated a lot. She’s a lovely lady.”
Pat and others lend a hand to Joyce by adding the detailed embellishments to the Twiddlemuffs, thus enhancing their therapeutic benefits. “It helps to keep the dementia patients calm. I think Joyce is incredibly extraordinary for her age. It’s heartening for her because she spends much of her time knitting, and it’s nice to know you’re doing something worthwhile,” shared Pat. She is determined to spread the word about Joyce’s benevolent contributions.
This story is adapted from the original reporting by www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk.
