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The loss of a child is something no family should ever have to face. Tragically, for some families, it is a reality. Thanks to Bears of Hope, our St John of God Mount Lawley and Ballarat Hospitals will be able to provide further compassionate support to parents as they face this unimaginable loss, by ensuring cuddle cots are available to bereaved families. 

A cuddle cot is a cooling system that has been designed to fit within a small cot and lies beneath the infant. This can be an invaluable support resource for families experiencing the loss of their baby, as it enables families to spend additional time with their child, and to create special memories that they will cherish forever. Spending as much uninterrupted time as they need, without the worry or distress of needing to hand their baby back to hospital staff, is a gift for families before saying their final goodbye.

Some families who have lost babies of their own opt to donate cuddle cots back to hospitals through Bears of Hope.

“While our dream is that families never experience infant loss, it is a devastating reality for some,” said St John of God Mt Lawley Hospital Director of Nursing and Midwifery Emma Cook.

“Cuddle cots give the blessing of time, allowing grieving families to spend precious moments with their infant, creating memories and supporting the grieving process.

“We are so grateful to the families for this generous donation and know this gift of time will be cherished by those who need it most.”

Thank you to Bears of Hope for facilitating this truly special donation.

Your kindness could change a life.