Rhiannon, there are a numbering of Knitting groups that like to help out people with serious illnesses by literally clothing them in love. I know of a few programs that will send a handmade Shawl to people fighting Cancer or other serious illnesses, the idea being that every time you wear it, you will feel the love they put in each stitch and know that as they stiched it, every stich represents a prayer that was said on your behalf. This is done here in the US through both Episcopal and Methodist churches and does not require your membership to participate. They consider it a special prayer ministry and believe that it will help the recipients fight the illness and concentrate on recovery.

I have sent my Mum a crocheted 'angel' from another group which crochets Angels and Smiley faces which are then mailed to people who have been nominated by a friend. It really helped my Mum get through a surgery and recovery. They choose a volunteer who lives near the nominated person and when its done. that volunteer drops it in the post with a note about the program. This one is done all around the wrold and they have sent out hundreds of thousands of angels and smiley faces. They do the smiley faces for kids. It may seem silly, but I think it's a marvelous gesture and a tangible reminder that you are loved and that your life is valuable.

If I knew where you'd live, I'd crochet one for you myself.