Brenda Nelson of Stewartville said she found her calling in 2019 when she stumbled upon an article about "The Magic Yarn Project."
"The Magic Yarn Project" is a non-profit organization made up of volunteers who make homespun yarn "wigs" that resemble of Disney characters like Elsa or Rapunzel. The yarn wigs are then donated to children who have lost their hair because of cancer or other illnesses.
Even though Nelson had never picked up a crochet hook in her life, she was determined to make a wig. She went to workshops hosted by the organization. She found herself to be a fast learner, and soon after, she started to lead her own workshops.
Nelson has a special understanding of what the children are going through because she fought her own battle with cancer. She's been in remission since December. She knows firsthand what its like to lose hair because of an illness.
Nelson just donated 41 yarn wigs to Mayo Clinic. It was her very first donation. The local nonprofit Steel Horse Militia recently fundraised to help Nelson with her mission.
"If you put your mind to it, you can do anything," Nelson said. "I look forward to see where this goes."
Those interested can email Nelson at BrendaN@themagicyarnproject.com.
-Megan Zemple