Knitting Hope and Comfort: Honoring Ellen Miller and Passing Hats

As we celebrate the season of gratitude this November, the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) is reflecting on the individuals and organizations that have made a meaningful difference in the lives of ovarian cancer survivors. One such partner is Ellen Miller and her nonprofit, Passing Hats, whose dedication and kindness have touched the hearts of cancer patients across the country.

A heartfelt mission: Passing Hats

Ellen Miller’s journey with Passing Hats began in 2010 as a small act of compassion. After hearing about a young girl named Bekkie who was undergoing cancer treatment, Ellen decided to knit her a few hats in her favorite colors—pink and purple—to bring comfort. What started as a thoughtful gesture soon blossomed into a movement of hope.

Seeing Bekkie’s joy in receiving the hats and her eagerness to share them with other kids showed Ellen the power of a simple, handmade hat. Ellen then launched Passing Hats with a mission to provide warmth and care to cancer patients.

Today, Passing Hats is a nationwide community of volunteers who knit, crochet, sew, and loom hats for cancer patients. This year alone, over 20,000 handmade hats were created, ensuring patients feel cared for during their cancer journeys. Each hat represents kindness and hope, supporting those in need.

A special partnership with the NOCC

Our partnership with Ellen and Passing Hats began in 2023. In 2024, over 4,000 handmade hats were donated to our Faces of Hope Cancer Care Packages, which are sent to ovarian cancer survivors nationwide. These hats, lovingly made by Passing Hats volunteers, provide practical support and a reminder of compassion and hope for those navigating their cancer journey.

Losing hair can be an emotional and challenging experience for those undergoing chemotherapy. A soft, handmade hat offers warmth and dignity during treatment, reminding each recipient that they are not alone in their battle. These hats are much more than accessories—they are symbols of care and kindness.

Ellen shared, “The most rewarding part of this experience is seeing the smiles on patients’ faces when they wear our hats.” Those smiles represent resilience, hope, and the healing power of kindness.

An ongoing legacy of love

Passing Hats has grown over​​ the past 14 years, but the heart of the organization remains the same: to provide warmth and comfort to every cancer patient in need. Ellen’s dedication to this mission inspires volunteers from all walks of life to join the cause, whether they are seasoned knitters or beginners eager to help.

“No experience is necessary,” says Ellen. “We welcome anyone who wants to learn and help make a difference.” Every year, thousands of handmade hats are lovingly created and distributed to cancer patients nationwide, offering comfort, dignity, and hope.

Our deepest gratitude

As we reflect on all that we are grateful for this November, the NOCC would like to express our sincere thanks to Ellen Miller and the entire Passing Hats community. To Ellen and all the volunteers who knit, crochet, sew, and loom hats for cancer patients: thank you for spreading warmth, love, and kindness, one stitch at a time. 

To learn more or to join this incredible movement, visit PassingHats.org. Whether you’re an experienced knitter, new to crocheting, or want to try looming hats, your efforts can help bring comfort and hope to cancer patients nationwide. Instructions for looming hats are available on the website, making it easy for anyone to get involved. 

This season, let’s celebrate the power of giving and the profound impact of small acts of kindness on those facing life’s toughest battles.

NOCC’s programs and resources

At the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, we understand how overwhelming an ovarian cancer diagnosis can be. That’s why we offer a range of resources and support services to help you and your loved ones navigate this journey.