On a Friday afternoon following another packed week of tests, standardized patient encounters, and OMT competencies, 20 first and second year RVU-SU students chatted away as they made blankets in a library conference room. The event, organized by RVU-SU’s Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA) chapter, was part of the National SOMA Region V Community Development initiative for a winter blanket drive. The blankets will be donated to Project Linus, a national charity who’s mission is to “Provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer “blanketeers”.“ Making the initial cuts on a soon to be blanket, Kat Forneris OMS-I and SOMA member said “Even though winter starts a little bit later here in Ivins, these blankets will keep those less fortunate warm. Plus who doesn’t love a fuzzy, fleece blanket!?!”.
As Footloose played in the background and cookies on hand for snacks, OMS I and II students carefully matched fleece patterns and colors, lined them up on tables, and then cut strips into the edges so the blankets could be tied. Everyone even had a quick lesson on the surgical square knot as well so the final step of tying each blanket together could be completed. The project was funded in part by RVU-SU SOMA’s fall fundraiser in which 1/4 zip pullovers and sweatshirts were sold to students and faculty. In total, the volunteering osteopathic medical student “blankenteers” made twenty new, warm, and colorful fleece blankets for donation. “What a great way to end another busy week filled with academic commitments!” Katie Zuspan OMS-II and SOMA Vice-President said as she tied off the final blanket.
