St John of God Murdoch Cancer Centre unveils 'Bee with U' project: stitching comfort into cancer treatment

In the heart of St John of God Murdoch’s Cancer Centre, an uplifting initiative has taken flight, one stitch at a time.

26 Oct 2023

The buzzing sound of knitting needles and crochet hooks fills the air as the compassionate community comes together to create a symphony of hope for those undergoing cancer treatment.

The ‘Bee with U’ project that was inspired by a deeply personal journey has become a beacon of comfort for patients facing the challenges of chemotherapy and radiation. The project was created by the American family of Paul Marshall, whose own battle with glioblastoma sparked the idea. It seeks to remind patients of their connection to the greater human community and the soothing embrace of nature.

The mission is simple yet profound: to craft small, stuffed bees as tools of comfort for cancer patients. Over 200 of these handmade companions, woven from the threads of empathy and care, have been carefully created within the Cancer Centre community. These bees are more than just adorable creations – they symbolise strength, resilience, and unity.

For Paul Marshall, a small crochet bee became a loyal companion as he progressed through his challenging journey of chemotherapy and radiation. It was a physical reminder of the interconnectedness between nature, community, and personal strength.

Ainslie Mackay who is an Assistant in Nursing in the Cancer Centre brought the project to Murdoch as she knows how difficult and lonely cancer treatment can be.

“The nights are long and lonely, but the bee reminds you that there’s always someone thinking of you,” she said.

The Cancer Centre’s decision to embrace the ‘Bee with U’ project reflects a commitment to holistic care, recognising the importance of addressing not just the physical aspects of cancer treatment but also the emotional and psychological toll it takes. The initiative aims to normalise the use of coping tools, offering all patients a source of comfort during their treatments.

By bringing the ‘Bee with U’ project to life, the Cancer Centre is weaving a tapestry of support, compassion, and unity for its patients. In each stitched bee lies the collective warmth of a community determined to uplift and accompany those navigating cancer treatment.

As the bees find their way into the hands of patients, they carry with them a message: you are not alone, and the community is here, buzzing with love and support.