Hospice cuddle beds arrive in memory of Dominic Ryan
Community fundraising ensures comfort for families at St Leonard's Hospice
St Leonard's Hospice in York has achieved its goal of providing a cuddle bed in every room, thanks to exceptional community fundraising efforts in memory of Dominic Ryan.
The Cuddle Bed Appeal successfully raised £81,377, exceeding its target and allowing for the purchase of five additional beds so that every bedroom at the hospice now has a cuddle bed.
Louise Ryan, Dominic's wife, and her family undertook various fundraising activities, such as head shaves and Dragon Boat races, in honour of Dominic, who passed away at the hospice in October 2023.
These cuddle beds, designed to provide comfort and closeness at critical times, are wider than standard hospital beds and adjustable, allowing loved ones to lie side by side without obstructions like bed rails.
Nikki, a Healthcare Assistant at the hospice, shared how the cuddle bed transformed her experience when her partner Darren Powell was a patient there.
“I’d say goodnight from inches away, but it felt like miles apart,” she says. “Somewhere along the way, I had stopped being his partner and had become his carer.”
When Darren arrived at St Leonard’s, there was a cuddle bed in his room. The larger, adjustable bed meant Nikki could lie beside him safely and comfortably.
“For the first time in a long time, we were together again. We talked, laughed and rested in each other’s arms. That closeness meant everything.”
The beds enable families to be together, sharing moments of joy and closeness during end-of-life care.
St Leonard’s Hospice depends on charitable contributions, receiving only a quarter of its running costs from the NHS, highlighting the importance of community support.
Anyone wishing to support further fundraising efforts for cuddle beds can donate here.