A crafty group of locals is partaking in a worldwide movement to knit prosthetic breasts for women who have survived breast cancer.
Run in Goolwa from the Alexandrina Centre for Positive Ageing, 'Knitted Knockers' organises the prosthesis knitting kits for other volunteers to use, checks the final product and then arranges postage to women who have requested them.
Originating in America, the Knitted Knockers program began in the Alexandrina region in February 2015.
The prosthesis are designed to be an alternative to the traditional silicon breasts given to women who have had breast cancer and have undergone a mastectomy.
Every size, from A to G cups, are knitted, and are distributed to women ready to be worn inside their bras.
An Alexandrina sub-branch, based at Strathalbyn Community Connect, gets together regularly to knit the prosthesis.
Since the group began, about 30 pairs of breasts have been knitted and posted to women.
Alexandrina Council Community Connect co-ordinator Deb Gregory said the Goolwa branch is also responsible for checking every knitted prosthesis meets any risk factor and health regulation.
The prosthesis are free, and knitted from 100 per cent Bendigo Woollen Mills Cotton due to it being soft, durable and washable.
Deb said volunteers who participate in the program gain positive feedback from many - including those it serves.
"I had a lady who received a prosthesis comment to me that 'she felt like a woman again', and the women who have received them are so appreciative," she said.
"It also is a project that can involve those women, who may be isolated at home, can still feel like they are part of the community. 'Communities helping women' is the catch cry of the program."
The Alexandrina branch has received an influx of volunteers to knit the prosthetics, and is now putting its efforts into raising awareness and funds for the program.
Deb said the group is also hoping to get the word out that the prosthesis are available for women who need them.
Donations, for the purchase of prosthesis materials and postage of them, can be posted to 10 Carnegie Street, Port Elliot, 5212.
A fundraiser afternoon tea will also be held on Saturday, August 1, from 2pm at the Alexandrina Centre for Positive Ageing.
Tickets for the afternoon tea are $15, and the event will include a glass of bubbly on arrival, door prize and raffle.
To contact the local branch, email knittedknockersalex@gmail.com or the centre on 8555 7230.
For more information about the Australian Knitted Knockers program, visit the website at www.knittedknockersaustralia.com or search 'Knitted Knockers Australia' on Facebook.
