Brendas Wish — Memorial Quilt

About this swap

In Memory of Brenda Neily — Our NiftyFifty 4, 6, and Twenty Plenty Plus Hostess. A breast cancer survivor from Massachusetts, Brenda traveled to Virginia to participate in the NiftyFifty Quilters' gathering and was so inspired she hosted three swaps herself. When her cancer returned, the community rallied around her and completed her swaps. After her passing on April 14, 2000, Marjorie Young of New York completed Brenda’s final project. It became known as Brenda’s Wish Quilt. Brenda had carefully chosen an entire bolt of Hoffman designer print fabric with tones of deep plum, forest green, and soft creams. She then invited quilters from across the country to design a quilt block as a heartfelt thank-you to Teresa for her dedication in creating and nurturing the Nifty Fifty Swaps. Brenda mailed each quilter a fat quarter of that beautiful fabric, stitching their gratitude, care, and connection into every piece. Sadly, Brenda did not live to see her wish fulfilled—to present the quilt to Teresa. But Marjorie carried out Brenda’s wish by following through. She collected all the quilt blocks from across the country and completed the finished quilt with compassion and determination, ensuring that Brenda’s vision would live on. The day the box arrived at Teresa’s home was a complete surprise. She had no idea that, behind the scenes, this quilt had been created in her honor. As she opened it, emotion overwhelmed her. Tears filled her eyes as the quilt revealed itself—its rich plum, forest green, and cream fabrics glowing softly, each block a testament to kindness and connection. She had never been so deeply touched. Brenda’s Wish Quilt became more than a quilt—it became a lasting symbol of love, friendship, and the unbreakable bonds within the quilting community. Individual quilt block photos coming soon!!