Cœurs douceurs: A Tapestry of Kindness and Compassion
Sharing their time, passing on their skills and contributing to something bigger than themselves. These were the driving forces behind several residents of Les Promenades du Parc this year. Inspired by Cœurs douceurs, a project created by resident Michèle Gignac-Forgues, they came together to bring comfort to women living with breast cancer… one stitch at a time.
What is the Cœurs douceurs initiative?
The idea for Cœurs douceurs was born out of a simple yet meaningful conversation between two breast cancer survivors: Michèle Gignac-Forgues and her friend Diane Daniel, an author and peer support volunteer with the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation.
“Diane and I knew that post-surgery cushions already existed. Tucked under the arms or held against the chest, they provide real relief, yet they remain relatively uncommon and difficult to find. I thought that was such a shame, and I wanted to do something about it,” explains Michèle Gignac-Forgues.
To make these comforting cushions more accessible to women in need, Michèle launched Cœurs douceurs. For her, however, the cushions are much more than a source of physical comfort: each one reminds the woman who receives it that she is not alone and that an entire community has taken the time to show her care and support.
A common purpose, woven with care
It was the deeply human side of this wonderful cause that captured the interest of residents at Les Promenades du Parc. Around 60 of them rallied behind the initiative. Michel Leclerc, Living Environment Manager, played a key role in organizing the workshops and supporting the volunteers, with help from several staff members, including Michel Bilodeau and Valérie Blain, who both work in the care units.
“Some residents put their sewing skills to good use, while others found different ways to help, whether by cutting fabric, shopping for supplies or coordinating the various stages of production. Everyone found a way to contribute that suited their interests, abilities and energy levels,” says Michel Leclerc.
This inclusive approach also gave residents living with cognitive impairments the opportunity to take an active role in the project. Stuffing the cushions, in particular, allowed them to practise their motor skills while contributing to something tangible and meaningful.
Stitching together friendships
Beyond its original purpose, the initiative brought residents together who might not otherwise have had the chance to get to know one another. As they worked side by side, conversations and laughter filled the room, bonds grew stronger and new friendships blossomed.
“What touched me most was seeing so many men get involved. We often associate this kind of initiative with women, so I was pleasantly surprised and proud to see the men take part with just as much enthusiasm. The atmosphere in the workshops was wonderful! Residents who had crossed paths for years without really knowing one another finally had a chance to get acquainted,” recounts Michèle Gignac-Forgues.
Cœurs douceurs also gave many participants the chance to rediscover skills they hadn’t used in years and share their talents in support of a meaningful cause. For many, the experience offered a renewed sense of purpose and a feeling of being actively involved in their community.
A community effort, thread by thread
The collective effort yielded remarkable results: 280 cushions were sewn and donated to the CHUM and Se Reconstruire, centre santé du sein Foundation, as well as distributed at the Breast Health Forum in Montreal. While each cushion represents the generosity of an entire community of residents, the experience itself has also left a lasting impression on everyone at Les Promenades du Parc.
“Thanks to the dedication, talents and generosity of our volunteers, we far exceeded our initial goal. Along the way, the workshops also fostered a sense of pride, brought joy and gave residents a deep sense of purpose,” says Raphaël Bonneau, General Manager of Les Promenades du Parc.
The initiative has made a tangible difference not only for the women receiving the cushions, but also for the residents who helped create them. For recipients, the cushions provide welcome comfort in their daily lives. For those who made them, they are a reminder that working together can make a real difference in someone else’s life.
The experience has been so rewarding that several resident volunteers have asked to continue! Originally conceived as a one-time activity, Cœurs douceurs will return in January 2027, once again under the guidance of Michèle Gignac-Forgues.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Cœurs douceurs shines a light on the power of compassion and community support. Named a finalist for an Excellence Award from the Quebec Association of Retirement Residences (RQRA) in recognition of its outstanding social contribution, the initiative reflects the genuine commitment and generosity of the residents of Les Promenades du Parc.
And while the story of these 280 cushions is already inspiring, it’s far from over. Judging by the enthusiasm the initiative has generated, there is every reason to believe that other meaningful endeavours will soon be taking shape at the residence!