Twin quilts--stories to be told.

Abstract

A perusal of the literature reveals the many ways quilt design and personal communication is interwoven. We selected quilt making to provide those affected by breast cancer-as a patient, friend or relative-the opportunity to communicate their experience through quilt making. With the participation of community quilters, a concept and quilt design was developed to incorporate the work of patients and others in making a quilt. The project pattern and materials were presented. Contributors were invited to write about what inspired them to participate. For the 80 blocks that were constructed as twin quilts, 36 individuals wrote something about their block. Analysis of the vignettes identified major categories. The most common theme was honoring a specific person's life and their breast cancer journey. Displayed together with their accompanying vignettes, the quilts have become a focal point for interaction among patients and their families.