What started as a small idea from local seamstress Holly Williams turned into a heartfelt community effort supporting patients recovering from breast cancer surgery at Singleton Hospital.

Holly, who runs Sewing & Alterations by Holly, approached Swansea Bay Health Charity earlier this year with a heartfelt idea: to create and donate handmade mastectomy cushions in memory of her aunt. With the support of her community sewing classes in Morriston and Clase, what began as a plan to make 30 cushions quickly grew into something even more special.

Together, the group created 41 handmade mastectomy cushions, which were recently delivered to the Breast Cancer Unit at Singleton Hospital.

Holly shares the emotional connection she has to breast cancer, and her motivation behind the donation. Her Aunt Susan battled breast cancer in the 90s, taking an unexpected turn many years later:

“She had both her breasts removed and I don’t remember her having access to a mastectomy cushion. She was in remission for years. Sadly, it returned in 2012. It spread to her brain, and she passed away within 4 months of finding out it had returned.”

Mastectomy cushions are specially shaped to help support breast cancer patients after breast surgery, providing comfort and protection. Staff at the unit welcomed the donation, explaining that these cushions are always in demand and make a real difference to patients during a challenging time.

Breastcare Nurse, Nicola Sharp shares:
“Mastectomy cushions are very important to breast cancer patients. They protect surgical sites, reduce pain, support healing, improve mobility and sleep, and provide emotional reassurance during recovery. They also bring a smile to patient at this difficult time and patients are very grateful for Holly’s kind gesture and donation.”

Holly gave a shoutout to members of her class for contributing towards the donation:

“Thank you to all the incredible women who contributed in any way – whether through donating materials, giving their time, sewing, or providing bedsheets. You made it all happen. To know we’ve helped give 40 strong women some comfort during such a life-changing time is absolutely priceless.”

The Swansea Bay Health Charity team were delighted to help coordinate the handover with the hospital team.

Catrin Jones, Digital Fundraising & Engagement Officer at Swansea Bay Health Charity shares:

“We’re so grateful for the time, care and creativity that’s gone into making these cushions. They will make a real difference to patients recovering from breast cancer surgery, offering comfort at a time when it’s needed most. Community support like this is at the very heart of what Swansea Bay Health Charity is all about – helping to enhance care and support patients and staff across our health board.”

Holly runs regular sewing classes in Morriston and Clase where members of the community come together to learn new skills, work on projects and support one another creatively. Her classes welcome people of all abilities and provide a friendly space to share a love of sewing.

Swansea Bay Health Charity would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Holly and everyone involved in creating the cushions.

Anyone interested in supporting patients and staff across Swansea Bay University Health Board – through donations, fundraising, volunteering or gifts in kind – can learn more on the Swansea Bay Health Charity website or get in touch today.