Ward Sister Carla Tillotson from the Inpatient Unit said:
“We are incredibly pleased to be able to offer this cuddle bed to the patients in our care and to those closest to them. It allows families to share precious moments together and provides comfort at a time when it matters most.”
John, a family member, shared his experience:
“I would like to write a few words on what having the cuddle bed has meant to me, my wife, my family and friends.
Firstly, my experience is nothing but positive, being able to spend the night cuddled up to my wife and holding her hand has meant the world to us both. I believe it has also comforted my wife so much more. On her first nights in the hospice when I was not sleeping with her she became restless in the night and required medication but since I have been with her she has been much more settled and calm and has not needed medication.
It is not just at night when it is great, during the day, family and friends are also able to get closers to her, hold her hand give her a gentle cuddle and also be comfortable themselves, something almost impossible in a single bed or in a chair near the bed.
All the staff who have seen the bed say how it helps. The controls on each side of the bed make readjustment very simple for the partner in the bed and the need for a remote wired control almost obsolete.
I would recommend the hospice keep this bed and if possible purchase more so other patients and partners can benefit as much as we have..”
A Space for Closeness and Comfort
The cuddle bed is specialist equipment designed to create a warm, comforting space where two people can remain close and support one another. It removes the physical barriers of a standard medical bed, allowing connection and reassurance when it is needed most.
It also provides parents and children with the opportunity to cuddle together comfortably and spend meaningful family time while staying with us. Many of us understand the power of a cuddle and the comfort it can bring. The ability to hold a loved one and simply be close cannot be underestimated.
Victoria Grimster (Matron)
Made Possible by Community Support
The cuddle bed has been made possible by all who donated alongside BIG Give campaign. We at the hospice would like to thank all who donated and support us to continue to deliver the person centred care we are renowned for.
We would like to thank John and Rowena for sharing their story and raising awareness to help others. In the short time we got to know Rowena we were privileged to care for such a lovely lady. We can share that other families have already benefited from the existing bed and that John’s incredible fundraising efforts for a second bed in memory of Rowena has touched Staff, patients and volunteers at the hospice.
Here at St Kentigern Hospice we are very lucky to be part of such a compassionate community and we ensure their efforts benefit patients and families in the best possible way.
If you would like to donate to John’s JustGiving page please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/cuddlebed