By Mei-Feng Lin 

On January 21, Tzu Chi Sydney volunteers brought handmade drainage bag covers to the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPA). Their dedication to the "spirit of love and care" was evident as they donated 30 covers of various sizes. Upon delivery, hospital staff requested ten more covers, bringing the total to 40, to help more patients. 

A group of compassionate craft volunteers cut and measure fabric, carefully making drainage bag covers for patients. Each stitch carries love and care, bringing warmth and hope to those in need. | Photo: Hui-Ling Chen | Australia | Jan 2025

Handcrafted with Love 

In the Renal and Rheumatology Ward 6 East 1, volunteers provided 20 drainage bag covers measuring 31x14 cm. Audrey Taduran, a nurse instructor, and Amy Luu, a manager, expressed their gratitude as the covers not only protect the patients' medical devices but can be safely stored during hospital stays and returned afterward for volunteers to clean, disinfect, and maintain. Patients praised the thoughtful design, finding the covers secure and reassuring. They sincerely hope that Tzu Chi will continue to provide these helpful items to all those who need it. 

Volunteers focus intently on completing handmade projects, skillfully trimming loose threads. | Photo: Hui-Ling Chen | Australia | Jan 2025 

In the Cardiology Ward East 4, nurse instructor Joanne showed the volunteers a 43x23 cm medical device and requested 20 custom covers for easier patient handling. Volunteers carefully measured the size and passed the requirements to the "Craft Workshop" team to ensure precise cutting and sewing for patient comfort. 

Additionally, in the Plastic and Melanoma Ward on the sixth floor, instructor Christopher Payne received ten 29x30 cm drainage bag covers. He was moved by how the covers made cancer patients' movements more convenient. Both patients and caregivers appreciated the selected fabric, colors, and exquisite craftsmanship. With only one Tzu Chi cover left in the ward, he sincerely hoped for 20 more to meet patient needs. 

Sewing with Love 

Volunteers not only deliver handcrafted covers but also embody the spirit of "witnessing suffering and realizing one’s blessings." Every Friday they gather at the Tzu Chi Australia office to sew drainage bags, hat covers, and other medical aids. Their intricate handiwork and selfless love aim to bring more convenience and care to patients and healthcare workers in Sydney. 

Notably, volunteers are currently sewing 600 handmade scrub caps for the TIMA medical forum in Brisbane in early March. These covers, given to attending medical personnel, symbolize Tzu Chi's gratitude and blessings for global healthcare teams, demonstrating the spirit of "giving back to society." 

Uchita Shrestha (left) and Tina Luccith (right) from the RPA palliative care ward carefully organize the donated drainage bags. | Photo: Yu-Hua Luo | Australia | Jan 2025 

On February 3, compassionate craft volunteers focused intently on cutting and measuring fabric at Jing Si Hall, carefully sewing each drainage bag. They knew these bags would accompany patients through challenging treatments, with every stitch imbued with love and blessings. 

On each of these bags, volunteers have also sewn "Jing Si aphorisms" onto them, offering warm words of encouragement for the patients. These simple yet powerful messages provide patients with strength, making them feel the community's care and support during their treatment journey. 

"Jing Si aphorisms" are sewn onto each bag, offering warm wishes for patients' recovery. These simple yet powerful words give patients strength and convey community care and support. | Photo: Yijun Liao | Australia | Jan 2025

Embracing the Spirit of Giving 

Master Cheng Yen once said, "Blessings do not just come. They are accumulated through love and good deeds. Only when everyone is willing to give can society be harmonious and the world free from disasters." 

Each of these small bag cover carries countless blessings and love. A group of selfless volunteers sews warmth and hope with their hands. This is the spirit of Tzu Chi—spreading love through actions and continuing the cycle of goodness.