Wow, what a moving topic. I feel everyone's pain and want a part of that great big group hug.
When I was about 9, my grandmother's twin sister (my great aunt) gave a hand pieced and hand quilted bed size quilt. I used it for years then eventually not "understanding" the meaning and love of a quilt, it wound up torn, used for picnics, etc. I am now ashamed to admit that I eventually tossed it out. Years and years later, now being a quilter, I would give most anything for that opportunity to love and take care of that quilt properly. I was so young and my Mom I guess didn't "understand" the meaning of it either. Times like this when I am reminded of it and really think about it, it pains me deeply.
I did however do some good as I was able to "rescue" my brother's baby quilt that my grandmother made for him. It has some tears and holes but, I don't intend to repair it. It stays put away and I pull it out every now and again to love it, imagine MaMa hand piecing it with all the love she put into it and put it away again.
All that being said has made me not want to make and give away quilts. I have only given 3 to my parents (my Mom does "understand" now) and 1 to my sister, and 2 for new babies. I have made over 60 but, I just keep filling up my closets. I know that when my girls are older (I have 3) I will divide them among them and they will all love them appropriately.
Hugs to everyone!