Margaret Helps Save Tiny Lives
At Brunswick House, we are incredibly proud of our residents – and few stories capture the spirit of kindness and dedication quite like that of our much-loved resident, Margaret Thompson.
Born prematurely in 1938 at her family home in Bedlington, Margaret’s arrival into the world was so fragile that her mother rushed to fetch the priest, fearing she might not survive. Now, 87 years later, Margaret’s life has come full circle as she spends her days helping premature babies thrive – both locally on Tyneside and across the world.
Margaret, the second of nine children, learned to knit at just five years old. Over the past 40 years, she has knitted and crocheted thousands of blankets and garments, supporting families and newborns in need.
Despite being registered blind in her right eye and partially sighted in her left, Margaret continues her work using her incredible sense of touch. Around 90 per cent of each blanket is completed purely by feel, a remarkable testament to her skill, patience and determination.
Now living at Brunswick House in Gosforth, Margaret has created more than 70 blankets in the past 11 months alone for the Premature Baby Unit at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI).
Teamwork and Community Spirit
Starting a blanket can sometimes be tricky, so Margaret is supported by a friend who helps begin each piece before handing it over for Margaret to complete. Once finished, the blankets are carefully washed and passed on via Margaret’s daughter Gillian’s goddaughter, who works as a midwife at the RVI.
Our Home Manager, Louise Burnyeat, said:
“Margaret has made so many blankets over the years that she has lost count – it runs into many thousands. Her dedication is truly inspiring.”
Margaret’s kindness doesn’t stop at the RVI. Over the years, her knitted items have supported children and families worldwide, with donations sent as far as Kenya. She has also lovingly created items for Trinity Church, Gosforth, helping to raise funds, and continues to take part in Sunday services at St Cuthbert’s in Brunswick Village.
‘I Can’t Sit Idle’
Margaret says her craft brings her great joy:
“I like to help people who need my assistance. I can’t sit idle; I must be doing something.
It passes the time, is very therapeutic and keeps my mind and hands active.
When the weather is nice, I enjoy sitting in the sun with a cup of tea and crocheting. It is lovely to know that I can help the babies at the RVI.”
A Home Full of Heart
Brunswick House, owned by Prestwick Care, provides care for 41 adults aged 65 and over, including those living with dementia and those needing nursing or personal care. Stories like Margaret’s perfectly reflect the compassion, purpose and sense of community that make Brunswick House such a special place to live.
We are so proud of Margaret and the tiny lives she continues to touch – one stitch at a time 🧶💙