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Eliz Sandalls crochets 100+ baby blankets for Bradford Royal Infirmary

other · 2026-05-21

Eliz Sandalls, a West Yorkshire resident who was registered blind in her right eye since 1987, underwent surgery in 2023 at Bradford Royal Infirmary (BRI) to save the sight in her left eye. The operation, performed by surgeon Helen Devonport, was successful, though Sandalls' vision remains limited. To express gratitude, she crocheted over 100 baby blankets for the hospital's maternity unit by 2025. The blankets, featuring vibrant colors and geometric patterns, have provided comfort to parents of premature babies. Tammy Millar, who gave birth to triplets at 24 weeks, said the blankets eased her stress. Nimota Sowemimo praised the handmade gifts as made with love. Sandalls, who cannot read books but enjoys walking and crocheting, stated she is forever grateful to BRI and Devonport.

Key facts

  • Eliz Sandalls crocheted over 100 baby blankets for Bradford Royal Infirmary.
  • She had been registered blind in her right eye since 1987.
  • In 2023, she underwent surgery to save sight in her left eye.
  • The surgeon was Helen Devonport.
  • Sandalls lives in West Yorkshire, UK.
  • The blankets are for the hospital's maternity unit.
  • Tammy Millar gave birth to triplets at 24 weeks and found comfort in the blankets.
  • Nimota Sowemimo described the blankets as made with love.

Entities

Artists

  • Eliz Sandalls

Institutions

  • Bradford Royal Infirmary
  • BBC

Locations

  • West Yorkshire
  • United Kingdom

Sources