PARKER — It's an alternative to a traditional prosthesis for breast cancer survivors - Knitted Knockers.
The national organization started in 2011 and about two years ago Mary Turek of Parker decided to start a local group called Great Knockers Again.
The 100 percent volunteer organization has distributed about 2,500 pairs of knockers since, all in an effort to give breast cancer survivors a comfortable and affordable option.
"I'm going to say probably about 35 years or so."
Knitting has been a long-time activity for Turek. Along with her mother, she's made hats and scarves for the homeless. However, in the last few years her outreach has switched gears to something that hits close to home.
"My sister is a breast cancer survivor. Somehow I came across Knitted Knockers and I thought this is something we can do together and support my sister."
Turek said the knitted or crocheted knockers filled with Poly-fil stuffing slip right into a bra and are much lighter and also a lot cheaper than a silicone gel prosthesis.
The knockers, which are free, have been a help to her sister who had a lumpectomy.
"I did make her a little bitty knocker...about half of a size A."
It's also helped those who've lost one or both breasts to cancer.
'"Another friend...from Indiana who I went to high school with is now on her third bout of breast cancer and sent me an email...and she goes "Can I have a pair of knockers?"'
The yarns she and her group use are 100 percent cotton.
"So they are so soft against the women's skin that has either been scarred or burned from the surgeries and the radiation."
Each knocker is also sized accordingly for each individual woman.
Turek said, "Maybe they've gone for years without wearing a prosthesis or any type in their bra and now we finally had something for them."
If you're interested in getting a pair of knockers or donating CLICK HERE.
