October is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkin-spiced lattes; it’s a time when the world turns its attention to a cause that affects millions of lives – Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This annual campaign aims not only to raise awareness about the most common cancer among women but also to educate, support, and inspire action.

I am humbled and honored to be a part of the annual Stitch Pink campaign with Moda Fabrics. This year Moda has partnered with Camille Roskelley and Aurifil threads.  We all know someone that has been effected by Breast Cancer including my mom, aka GAMMY!

Gammy was not just an ordinary woman; she was a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, who possessed a heart filled with wisdom, patience, and an infectious sense of humor. But above all, she was incredibly strong, especially when faced with the formidable opponent called Breast Cancer.

She had always been the cornerstone of our family – a source of endless love, guidance, creativity and laughter. We all admired her not only for her resilience but also for her ability to find joy in the most challenging of circumstances.Gammy loved loading the grands upper a fulfilled trip to Chuckie Cheese with an endless supply of quarters. She loved chatting about your latest boyfriend or girlfriend and no topic was off the table for her.  Another thing Gammy loved doing was leaving a big ol’ smooch on everyone’s cheek, so when it came time to make my stitch pink project, I decided to reproduce this kiss.

I cut the lighthearted charm pack and layered the pieces, topstitching them with Aurifil threads to a base cloth. Piecing the red charm packs together to create lips and raw edge appliquéd them to the pillow top. I came across a “Gammy’s Girls” clothing label and knew it was a sign I had to include it on the pillow.Gammy’s Girls was the name of my sister and I’d company that made and sold things at craft fairs.

one label just wouldn’t do the job, so I added some additional ones as a representation of what a fashion icon Gammy – Ruth was. Making this into a pillow was the perfect finishing touch so that it can be hugged and loved on as much as she hugged and loved on us.

She left behind a legacy of strength, wisdom, patience, and laughter along with lessons on living life with resilience, grace and humor.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that unity is powerful, and together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this disease. By fostering awareness, supporting research, and encouraging early detection, we can create a world where breast cancer is not a threat to future generations. Let October be a month of inspiration and action, reminding us all that our collective efforts can and will lead to a future without breast cancer. Thank you for taking the time to read about the inspiration behind my life and my project!

Get screened!

-Modalissa