Anderson’s blankets comfort six grieving children

Debbie Anderson stands by the lap blankets that she made for the Norsworthy children. CONTRIBUTED

MADISON – Some people might call Debbie Anderson’s idea a ‘random act of kindness.’ Anderson’s empathy for six children hopefully will offer a bit of comfort after their parents’ deaths.

Anderson learned in April that 40-year-old Jennifer Norsworthy died from a blood clot. Within two days, Jennifer’s husband, 38-year-old Toby Norsworthy, died from a heart attack. Their six children range in age from 20 to 6 years old.

Anderson made lap-size throws or blankets for each Norsworthy child. “All of these people are strangers to me but that does not matter. My heart aches for the children,” Anderson said. “I certainly hope these blankets will bring some comfort today and in the years to come.”

Except for accidents, Anderson had never heard of a family losing both parents within two days. “I thought, ‘Can I relieve some of their pain?'” she said. “I’m just a concerned Christian woman wanting to bring comfort to six orphaned children.”

She asked for donations of money and supplies from friends at her church and local residents. Several members contributed from Anderson’s church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Madison Third Ward, Madison Alabama Stake. “Many hands made this possible,” she said.

The lap blankets are made from fleece in one large piece of material. Anderson, a quilter, needed about three hours to finish each blanket.

On June 8, Anderson met with Young Women from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who wrapped the blankets and wrote notes to the children. Blankets were delivered on June 9.

“We have an obligation, when a need is identified, to help,” Anderson said. “I am grateful that so many wonderful people wanted to contribute and help.”

“All I did was spearhead an idea. It is not about me … it’s about six precious children who are hurting,” Anderson said.

The Norsworthys’ church is Pineview Baptist Church in Harvest. “The church is asking for monetary donations with 100 percent going to the children,” Anderson said.