Healing Hats for Cancer Patients: Boulder & Southeast, CO
At Sathya Sai Center of Boulder in Boulder, Colorado, nearly 30 volunteers gathered at Cairn Christian Church on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter, for a heartfelt service activity dedicated to bringing comfort and love to cancer patients, as part of Aradhana Day celebrations. Members from the Sathya Sai Center of SE Denver also joined together with 18 adults, six young adults, six children, and community members in a spirit of unity and selfless service. The gathering reflected the universal values of compassion, love, and caring for those in need.
The sacred service project was organized in collaboration with the local nonprofit organization Passing Hats, founded by Ellen Miller. The intention of, “Looming with Love,” is it transforms simple acts of kindness into meaningful gifts for cancer patients undergoing treatment. Volunteers lovingly created soft yarn hats designed to provide warmth, comfort, and encouragement during infusion therapy sessions. Participants began looming hats and then passed them along for others to complete, symbolizing many hands and hearts united in healing service.
Radhika, Service Coordinator for the Boulder Sai Center, shared her gratitude for the opportunity to serve together:
“It was truly a labor of love to discover this special project, build love together, and then pay it forward on this sacred Holy Saturday.”
The atmosphere throughout the event was filled with joy, tenderness, and heartfelt connection. Volunteers of all ages worked side by side, sharing smiles, stories, and encouragement. One teenager reflected on the personal meaning behind the project:
“This project is special to me because my grandmother had cancer a few years ago, and it was a difficult journey for our family. She introduced my mother to Sai Baba and inspired my spiritual path. She is better now, and I feel grateful to give back for her and for others who need support.”
Another young participant joyfully shared:
“I knew people who passed away from cancer, and this helps me do something important for cancer patients and children. I know they can feel the love.”
She and her father proudly completed their hats together, lifting them with excitement as the room erupted in applause and shared happiness.
At the close of the gathering, Ellen Miller spoke about the inspiration behind Passing Hats and the lessons learned from cancer patients she encountered through the organization’s outreach:
“The patients taught me so much through their strength, love, and smiles. Their journeys remind us all why we are here - to serve, to love, to give, and to live with greater compassion. Let’s pass it on.”
The event beautifully reflected the teachings of Sathya Sai Baba:
“Hands that serve are holier than lips that pray.”
Through simple acts of loving service, the volunteers experienced the joy of unity, compassion, and the healing power of love shared from heart to heart.