Chalmers Home resident Lorna makes face masks
The increasing need for New Zealanders to wear face masks has inspired Chalmers Home resident Lorna Kensington to fire up the sewing machine.
During the times this year when Enliven homes have been closed to visitors due to Covid-19 Alert level restrictions, Lorna has kept busy making colourful washable masks for staff and families to buy for general use.
Chalmers Home Recreation Officer Claire SotoDeVera says even though Lorna lost the ability to use her right hand after a stroke it doesn’t hold her back from doing the things she wants to. “Lorna is an inspiration to any person who has a disability as she does not let her disability define her.”
“She will give anything a go, and not only can she do most things, she does it well and quickly. The recreation team at Chalmers love having Lorna help them and the residents think she is a superstar!”
Lorna says she taught herself to sew after getting married. She made many clothes for herself and her family. “I’ve always had a passion for arts and crafts.”
In her seven years living at Chalmers Home, Lorna has made reusable bags, handmade cards, chocolates to sell, among many other things.
Lorna says it takes about an hour to make each mask, and she usually puts together about seven to eight masks in one day.
Fabric for the masks has been provided by the home’s recreation team, and some kind donations from family members.
“All the money I’m raising from selling the masks will go back into the home’s recreation fund so they can provide more supplies for us to use,” Lorna says.
Enliven's Chalmers Home provides rest home and hospital level care, as well as short-tenn respite and health recovery care, and an engaging day activity programme. To find out more about Chalmers Home call the home directly on 06 758 5190 or visit www.enlivencentraLorg.nz.