Here at RMHC, we keep families close in medical crises, making sure they are just steps away from where their child is receiving medical care. We understand how difficult it is to watch a family member go through these hardships. It can cause stress, anxiety, or uncertainty about the future. And at RMHC, we believe that every child in a family deserves comfort and care during these difficult times—not just the one receiving treatment.
Thanks to the generosity of Marty and Brandy Warthman, along with Heart of Ohio Quilters Guild and the Wish II Quilt Guild, that comfort now comes in the form of something warm, soft, and full of love—a handmade quilt.
Creating The Sibling Closet
Starting this August, RMHC will have a Sibling Closet located downstairs in our lobby, where children can take a handmade pillowcase or quilt for extra comfort while their sibling is treated at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Each quilt features unique designs, patterns, and themes, designed to appeal to a wide range of ages.
This project was started in March by Marty and Brandy Warthman, a mother-daughter duo who wanted to bring joy to children in hard times. They are avid members of many different quilt guilds around Licking County, including Heart of Ohio Quilters Guild and the Wish II Quilt Guild. They hope that more guilds will join their mission in making young children feel a sense of peace and warmth through handmade crafts.
This project is meant to be ongoing, and Brandy hopes that it will continue throughout the years and grow with time.
“I want to see that closet filled, and I hope that it brings a little bit of color and sunshine to [kids’] days, and they can carry it around and say, ‘This is mine,’’’ Brandy said.
Moreover, a quilt or pillowcase from the Sibling Closet could be a fond memory of staying at the House and keep kids feeling safe and secure if they couldn’t bring any of their blankets from home.
Each quilt is either made by hand or machine, and Brandy and Marty often have quilting retreats where they can work in peace and further their interests. They also wanted to make sure that the quilts were diverse, so that the kids had a wide variety to choose from.
“Kids’ quilts are fun because they’re different colors and things that we probably wouldn’t do on a normal, big quilt,” Brandy said. “I’ve been working with Marvel Comics material and Star Wars material, which will be fun for kids, especially the boys.”
How You Can Help
If you enjoy sewing, crafting, or are part of a quilt guild, you can make a difference. Brandy and Marty are accepting donations for quilts and pillowcases. Each quilt has a specific guideline as designated by the Warthmans, as well as a provided RMHC label, before it can be placed in the Sibling Closet. They can be pieced, appliquéd, or made with a pre-painted panel, and they must be quilted by hand or machine and bound before turning in. If you are interested and want more information about how to donate, reach out to Brandy Wartham at brandywarthman@yahoo.com.