Pirjo created 100 pocket pals for children’s emergency unit —“I hope they bring comfort and joy to the little patients”
Pirjo Ahti wanted to cheer up the children who end up in the emergency department by knitting 100 plush toys. She delivered these figures, called pocket pals, to a children’s hospital emergency unit.
What a wonderful gesture! How did you come up with the idea to knit for children, Pirjo?
I started making pocket pals to bring a little joy to children in the hospital, as I was hospitalized several times when I was young and still remember how it felt.
I read an article about three Finnish women who made toys for ambulances in North Karelia. After that, I came across an American Facebook group called “Random Acts of Knitting and Crochet Kindness,” where I found patterns and pictures.
What was the knitting process like?
I started in week 2, and finished everything by the end of February. I packaged each pocket pal in its own zipper bag and froze them for two days. The biggest challenge was my osteoarthritis, which meant I sometimes had to take a break. I also developed an allergy to certain sock yarns, which made things more difficult.
I delivered the finished pocket pals to the children’s emergency reception at Hyvinkää Hospital, where patients are treated for urgent needs. I felt a warm glow inside, hoping that the little ones would find comfort and joy in them.
My friends, family, and people on Facebook have shown their appreciation, and the project has received thousands of likes on social media. I may have inspired a few others to do something similar.
So you knit more than just pocket pals?
I’ve previously knitted items for a fundraiser supporting people experiencing homelessness, and on Finland’s 100th year of independence, I made 100 pairs of baby socks for the maternity ward. Aside from that, I mostly knit for my family, including grandchildren and bonus children. Especially around Christmas, I love giving soft, knitted gifts to my loved ones.
I used to knit a lot when I was younger, and about ten years ago, after a long break, I picked it up again while recovering from depression. Now that I’m retired, I knit almost every day, as long as my hands and shoulders cooperate.
I’m currently working on a crocheted patchwork blanket as a summer project, and for the winter, I’d like to make something else to bring a little cheer. People have even asked for these pocket pals to be delivered to Ukraine.
