A new initiative is encouraging Tasmanians to help hand-make 1300 felt hearts to highlight the number of people who die from cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the state each year.
The 1300 Hearts project, launched by not-for-profit St Lukes, aims to raise awareness about CVD while creating opportunities for people to discuss their own health concerns.
St Lukes Health Navigator Nicole Grose said the project combines craft with crucial health conversations.
“We know finding your way through the health system can be tricky and many people want to make lifestyle changes to keep themselves well but simply don’t know where to start,” Grose said.
“When people come in to make a heart or two, they can also chat with a St Lukes health navigator about some of their health issues, ask questions and get advice on services available to them.”
The initiative is running in partnership with 1000 Hearts, a Tasmanian social enterprise that uses handmade pocket hearts for outreach and connection with people struggling with physical or mental health challenges.
Tasmania faces a 13% higher prevalence of CVD compared to the national average, partly due to higher rates of risk factors including obesity, smoking and high blood pressure.
“On top of the 1300 people who die of CVD each year, there are more than 30,000 Tasmanians living with debilitating effects of heart disease or stroke – but it doesn’t need to be this way,” St Lukes Head of Customer Service Kate Denmen said.
Founder of the original 1000 Hearts initiative, Sarah De Jonge, has welcomed the collaboration.
“1300 hearts is the perfect way to incorporate 1000 Hearts’ mission into St Lukes’ work, because it creates community connection in sewing the hearts, supports those already suffering from this chronic illness, and motivates us to show self-care,” De Jonge said.
The completed hearts will be donated to Tasmanian hospitals to provide comfort to patients and families affected by CVD.
The public can participate at St Lukes’ wellness hubs in Hobart or Launceston during Heart Awareness Week on May 6 and 7, or at their Agfest stand from May 1-3.
