Quilt Block Challenge Deadline Approaches for SIU Cancer

Program

Approximately 125 blocks have been completed and submitted from around central Illinois for the “Pieces of Hope” Quilt Block Challenge.  Blocks are due Friday, February 15.

The effort will benefit the SimmonsCooper Cancer Institute (SCCI) at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield.  Several quilts will be made from donated blocks and auctioned at SCCI’s Denim and Diamonds, an annual fundraiser held October 18, 2008 in Springfield.  Remaining blocks will be used to make lap quilts or quillows to be given to patients undergoing treatment.

Sewers and non-sewers are to complete a 12½-inch block, using one of two challenge fabrics, which are available at 10 participating quilt stores.  Additional guidelines are available online at the institute’s Web site, www.siumed.edu/cancer.  The effort has been coordinated by Lois Weissberg, co-owner of peace & Appliqué in Rochester, and several SIU volunteers.

The participating quilt shops are -- peace & Appliqué, Rochester; Calico Heart and Sew Unique, both Springfield; Peddler’s Way Quilt Co., Washington; The Quilt Corner, Morton; Quilters Delight, Clinton; Cozy Corner, Metamora; Sewing Studio, Normal; Prairie Points, Peoria; and Cotton Stitches, Pekin.

The SimmonsCooper Cancer Institute at SIU offers state-of-the-art treatment for patients in central and southern Illinois as well as facilities for cancer research and physician and public education.  This summer, it moves to a three-story, $21 million facility in Springfield.
For more information, including challenge rules and examples of quilt blocks, go online to www.siumed.edu/cancer/outreachpages/quilt.html.

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Note to editors:  The capitalization of peace & Appliqué is correct.