Thanks to the fundraising efforts of the local community St John's Hospice have reached their £14,000 target to buy a specialist ‘cuddle bed’, helping people to be closer to their loved ones while they are receiving palliative care.
With nearly 200 donations from individuals and local companies received, St John's Hospice has hit its fundraising target since launching and on-line appeal in October. With sponsored slims, hikes and runs and donations made in memory of loved ones – the cuddle bed appeal touched so many.
David from Kendal, who made a generous gift to the Cuddle Bed Appeal, said
“When my wife was in the Hospice for five weeks, three years ago, we stayed in a room half way down the ward. The room has a fold down bed, which I would pull down and I slept on that every night so I could be beside her, but I wasn’t with her. At the time I thought this pull-down bed was great, but when I heard about the cuddle bed, I thought that it was a very good idea. Based on my own experience I know how important the emotional support is as well as the medical support and that was why I wanted to support this amazing appeal.”
The cuddle bed will buy patients and their loved ones, very precious moments to together, without the physical barriers of an ordinary bed. Cuddling and physical touch have been shown to reduce stress, decrease pain and intensify bonds between people, and the ‘cuddle’ bed means patients and their loved ones can have this connection while receiving palliative care.
Maddy Bass, Director of Nursing and Quality, St John’s Hospice said,
“We are over the moon that this appeal has successfully reached its target. Years of nursing has shown me how important it is for someone to lay next to their loved one to offer comfort and physical support. At this time of year especially, we can all understand the importance of a cuddle and how it makes you feel. A huge thank you to everyone who has contributed to this appeal for the benefit of so many people.”
Hundreds expected at Eden Project Morecambe 'breaking ground ceremony'
Morecambe children's nursery announces plans to close during extreme heat
Lancaster MP responds to Sir Keir Starmer's resignation as Prime Minister
Carnforth High School praised as a "caring community" in Ofsted report
Body of man found in Lancaster park
LISTEN and PHOTOS: Armed Forces weekend will return after massive crowds enjoy biggest ever event
Morecambe MP says Sir Keir Starmer "has made right decision" as Prime Minister resigns
Limited edition artwork will raise vital funds for Lancaster community group
Green Heritage Plaque marks first home of Lancaster University
New home revealed for £20m Morecambe West End regeneration scheme
Wooden nests take flight in Lancaster and Morecambe to stop decline of endangered birds
Veterans salute as Armed Forces Day flag raised at start of celebration weekend in Morecambe
Vandals cause delays to aqueduct sinkhole repairs in Lancaster
Extra Care scheme to open in Lancaster
Three people taken to hospital after road traffic collision in Morecambe
Injured police officer speaks of anger after jailed man freed 16 days after sentence
Morecambe woman to brave the shave to help dogs stay with their families
M6 near Lancaster to close for resurfacing
Full line-up for biggest ever Armed Forces weekend in Morecambe
Lancaster District residents thanked for embracing food waste recycling
