Covid Stories: "I am happy and satisfied that I've been able to do my bit to help other people"

Tricia's contribution to the Collecting Covid: Wales 2020 questionnaire project.

I live in a Pontnewydd, a small village in Cwmbran. From the moment I wake up until I go to bed my day is spent organising and coordinating the procurement of materials – mostly bedding – for my facebook group 'Cwmbran Sewing Group' to convert into much needed scrubs, laundry bags and ear protectors for the NHS and care staff in our local area.

I was a foot health practitioner and had to close my business straight away as it involves physical contact. I decided to form the sewing group to keep myself and some of my patients occupied, mentally and physically whilst benefitting front line staff.

My group have all donated a quilting square to commemorate our time in lockdown and the pandemic that brought us all together in a way that was personal to them. The quilt is being made up at this moment and will measure 91'' x 91'' on completion.

It has been a very stressful time for many but I think we have all learned a lot from this tragic event. I am happy and satisfied that I've been able to do my bit to help other people, within my group and those outside of it that had to remain in work.