Lori Widmar Proves Kindness Isn’t Cancelled

Lori Widmar says her grandmother could never stand to see a child or animal in need. Inspired by the woman who taught her to sew, the Hartford, KY seamstress used her hobby to support local charities—she made little girl dresses for fundraising auctions, comfort camisoles for breast cancer survivors, and even cat hammocks for the local animal rescue. So when the COVID-19 pandemic started, it was natural for Lori to spread her kindness to the frontline heroes.

Lori is the recipient of a kidney from 22-year old Brooklyn Bender of South Dakota who died tragically in a car accident. She sews masks in Brooklyn’s honor for nurses and patients at the kidney transplant program of Vanderbilt University Medical Center using the hashtag #becauseofbrooklyn.

“You know, after the wonderful care I received at Vanderbilt, you leave feeling like saying ‘thank you for helping save my life’ just isn’t enough. You wonder what on earth can I do to show my true appreciation.”

With donations of over 100 masks to Vanderbilt staff and patients, Lori’s appreciation and heroic nature are quite evident. She went above and beyond to not only say thank you, but to also spread some much needed love, kindness, and positivity into the world.

Check Out Lori's Story on News 5 Kentucky:

To construct her masks made of love, Lori used ProCool® Performance Interlock, ProCool® Performance Jersey with Silver, Zorb Organic Cotton Dimple with Silver, and many others, for a combined total of nearly 30 yards! In addition to these safe, effective fabrics that are ideal for face coverings, Lori utilized up to 600 yards of ProStretch™ Polyester and Cotton braided elastics.

“It makes my heart so happy, and this is so meaningful for me.”

Read more about Lori's donation in the Vanderbilt University Voice here.