Daphne Cancer Foundation Kicks Off Port Pillow Push Seeking 1,000 Donations

The Anchor Cross Cancer Foundation in Daphne has launched a community-wide “Port Pillow Push,” asking residents across the Gulf Coast to sew or collect small cushions for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Organizers have set a goal of 1,000 donated port pillows, with a collection deadline of April 1.

A port is a small catheter placed just beneath the skin, usually in the upper chest, through which chemotherapy drugs are delivered. It spares patients from being stuck with a needle at every treatment, but its placement can make wearing a seat belt painful or uncomfortable. A port pillow — a small cushioned pad with a Velcro strap — attaches to the seat belt and takes the pressure off, providing simple but meaningful relief.

How to Help

Port pillows are easy to make and are an ideal project for sewing circles, church groups, ladies’ groups and other community organizations looking for a hands-on way to serve local patients. Donations can be dropped off Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

The foundation describes itself as a community-based organization focused on education and patient assistance, serving patients across the Gulf Coast region. All funds and donations raised stay within the communities it serves.

Getting Involved

Anyone who wants to contribute pillows, learn sewing instructions, or find out more about the drive can reach Daniel Meshad with the Anchor Cross Cancer Foundation at (251) 607-5081 or by email at [email protected].

Implanted ports can stay in place for months or even years during treatment. Besides delivering chemotherapy, they can be used to draw blood and to give other intravenous fluids and medications, which is why many patients rely on them throughout a course of cancer care.