SUNSHINE PILLOWS

Katelyn’s Sunshine Pillows began with a simple gift, a handmade sunshine pillow crocheted with love, prayer, and a humble heart.

This small but meaningful token of light was created by Linda Schott of New Ridge Fellowship in Gilbertsville, PA. Linda helps lead the church’s prayer shawl ministry, where members knit and crochet items for individuals in need of comfort and prayer. With every stitch, they pray for the person who will receive the piece. Through this faithful ministry, Linda and her team have discovered a powerful way to touch lives.

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THE INSPIRATION: KATELYN’S BRAVE JOURNEY

In 2023, following Katelyn’s relapse with Neuroblastoma, Linda learned about her story through her niece, Amy Campbell, who attends Adventure Church. Katelyn was just eight years old at the time, courageously facing cancer for the third time. Deeply moved by her story, Linda felt inspired to act. Having previously been taught how to create Sunshine Pillows by a member of her church, she knew exactly what she wanted to make for Katelyn. And so, the story began.

PLANTING THE SEED

Linda lovingly crafted a sunshine pillow just for Katelyn. Katelyn cherished it, bringing it with her to the hospital alongside her sunshine-themed pajamas, sheets, and balloons. The pillow became a tangible reminder of God’s love, a symbol that she was never alone in her fight. But the kindness didn’t stop there. Inspired by Katelyn’s bravery, Amy suggested making additional Sunshine Pillows to bless other children. The Prayer Shawl team set an initial goal of creating just 40 pillows.

GROWING THE HARVEST

What began as a small goal quickly blossomed. The team surpassed their original target and has now created more than 259 Sunshine Pillows, and the impact continues to ripple outward. Katelyn herself played a meaningful role in the outreach. Pillows were sent to Ohio, where she had the opportunity to personally give them to children undergoing treatment at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Today, Linda and her team continue to faithfully create and send pillows to Lehigh Valley Children’s Hospital. These Sunshine Pillows were incredibly special to Katelyn. They brought her deep joy, and even greater joy came from sharing them with other children, friends, and families. That spirit of love continues today, as each Sunshine Pillow now includes a special tag featuring a sun she hand-drew, along with the words “Jesus Loves You” written in her own handwriting. In this way, every pillow carries a piece of Katelyn, a tangible reminder of the faith and love that sustained her. The prayers woven into every strand of yarn not only supported her throughout her journey but continue to offer that same love, comfort, healing, and peace to every person who receives one.

A LEGACY THAT SHINES ON

In May 2025, Katelyn was welcomed home into the loving arms of Jesus. Though her time here was far too short, her legacy shines brightly. Through the Strong Like Katelyn Joy Fund, her light, love, and joy for Jesus continues to spread. What began as something small, a simple crocheted pillow, has become something deeply profound. It is a reminder that even the smallest acts, when filled with prayer and love, can carry eternal impact. And in every Sunshine Pillow, Katelyn’s light continues to shine.

CROCHET WITH US

Join us in creating Sunshine Pillows—handmade with care, intention, and love for individuals and families navigating a cancer journey. Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or picking up a hook for the first time, you’re warmly welcome here. Many of our volunteers choose to pray, reflect, or simply hold good thoughts for the recipient as they stitch—every pillow carries that extra layer of comfort.

The Strong Like Katelyn Joy Fund provides material kits (yarn, hooks, and more) to get you started. If you prefer to use your own supplies, you’re welcome to—please check the volunteer guide for approved materials and patterns.

You can pick up materials and drop off completed pillows at our monthly Sunshine Pillow Workshops. Visit our Events page for upcoming dates and details.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to get started, including volunteer guides, official patterns, and helpful tutorials.

  • SLK Volunteer Guide

    Yarnspirations Pattern

    YouTube Tutorial

  • SLK Volunteer Guide

  • We will provide yarn for your requested pillows. If you choose to make more, here are great options:

    • Bernat Baby Blanket Frosting (very soft, easy to work with)
    • Bernat Baby Blanket Brights (used in video)
    • Bernat Baby Blanket Sparkle
    • Michaels Loops & Threads Cozy Cub (slightly thinner)
    • Premier Parfait Chunky (thinner—used for minis)

    Hobby Lobby options:
    • Baby Bee Snugs & Kisses
    • Baby Bee Adore-A-Ball

    We don’t recommend Amazon due to higher prices.

    COLOR REMINDER
    Feel free to be creative with colors!

    HOOK SIZES
    Hook size depends on your tension:
    • L hook for thinner yarn
    • M hook for thicker yarn

    Use what works best for you.

    POLY-FIL (Stuffing)
    We will provide stuffing. If you need more, it’s available at Walmart or craft stores.