09/26/2025
Despite the loving embrace of family, the encouragement of friends, the shared experience of support groups, and the compassion shown by caregivers, cancer can still be a lonely journey. But for a few patients receiving treatment at Cary Medical Center’s Jefferson Cary Cancer Center, there is a woman who is all too familiar with the rollercoaster of emotions that come with this fight who uses her tremendous talents and her time to make sure others feel better when they are feeling their worst.
“One of our patients brought in a special gift, a handmade quilt crafted with love and deep personal meaning,” recounted Kacey Soucy, Oncology Manager of the center. “What makes this quilt extraordinary is that it was made using repurposed procedure towels, each one representing a treatment completed, a milestone reached, and a day to be grateful for. These towels, usually used to maintain a sterile field during procedures, were transformed into a symbol of resilience, community, and healing.”
These gifts, made by an anonymous angel, do more than warm the body. They warm the soul.
“Each patient's journey is unique,” explained Soucy. “Many spend long hours in our infusion suite receiving the treatments that we hope will lead them to the best possible outcomes.”
Reta Ricker was the recipient of this most recent heartfelt gesture. Reta accepted the gift with tear-filled eyes, visibly moved by the thoughtfulness and generosity of a fellow patient. As she ran her hands across the blue swatches of material, she quietly said, “I know what these are, and I know the work it takes. I just don’t have the words.”
“While our team has been busy doing what we do best, caring for our patients, we paused today to witness a truly kindhearted gesture,” said Soucy. “As caregivers, we are often immersed in the day-to-day of supporting our patients through the highs and lows: navigating diagnoses, administering complex treatment regimens, managing symptoms and side effects, and offering emotional support along the way. What unfolded here today in our cancer center is a reminder of the quiet strength and deep compassion that lives within our community.”
