It may be an embarrassing memory to look back on now — carrying your blanket everywhere you went — but it was one thing that never left your side. Granted, it was a knitted piece of fabric but it was also your cuddle buddy for life.

That is why SMCHS’ National Honor Society hosted a three-week blanket drive that ended on Dec. 11 for the children’s hospital at the Camp Pendleton base. In doing so, the many hospitalized kids whose parents are serving in the army can experience the feeling of love and comfort of owning a blanket.

“We chose blankets, specifically because almost every child has a ‘special blankie’ that provides comfort and security,” said Coleen Barry, English teacher and NHS adviser. “Often, children who are hospitalized have only the sterile, unembellished blankets so providing this personal comfort helps mitigate the stress of hospitalization.”

Students could choose to purchase a blanket or to make one themselves with a blanket kit or by knotting together the cut edges of two pieces of fabric. The purpose was to gather colorful, kid-friendly blankets to deliver.

“This drive enables the members to actively participate in the service project because they actually have an opportunity to make the items being donated,” said senior Meghan Poth who came up with the blanket drive idea.

Coincidentally, the drive ends just in time for the season of giving.

“The blanket drive embodies the love of Christ by making a personal sacrifice to help those who are ill or cannot be home for the Christmas holidays,” said Coleen Barry, English teacher and NHS adviser.

The troops who serve our country sacrifice time with their families to ensure the safety of the families like those at SMCHS. Because of this loyalty to their country, NHS decided to do something in return.

“The blanket drive allows NHS members to give back to those who give so much, to those who sacrifice their lives and their safety for ours,” Poth said.

For senior Alexis O’Rourke, NHS service project coordinator, the drive is advantageous for the members to participate in.

“A big part of NHS is service, as it is one of the pillars of a [well-rounded] student,” O’Rourke said. “By doing this drive, it really brings all the members together as one which will benefit us in the future by encouraging a group mentality and working cohesively.”

As for the children, NHS’ goal is to make sure the hospitalized kids can feel a sense of love as their parents are off fighting for their lives and for the lives of many others.

“It’s great for the kids to know that someone else is thinking of them during the holiday season,” O’Rourke said. “I’m hoping these fun and colorful blankets will bring a little more brightness and happiness into their lives.”