We are now the proud owners of a 'cuddle bed'!

Unlike most beds in a clinical setting, the width of these specialised beds can be adjusted to allow for more than one person to comfortably lie together.

Having one of these beds makes such an incredible difference to our patients and families as loved ones are able to snuggle up and spend time together – but to buy one costs close to £20,000.

The story behind our cuddle bed is a special one, and made possible through the fundraising of one of our patients, Cat Morgan, who was diagnosed with Stage 4 Bowel Cancer in July 2019 and spent time in the hospice last year.

Cat sadly died under the care of our hospice in May 2023, but she has left the most incredible legacy.

In the last few months of her life, we were able to hire a cuddle bed for Cat and her son Archie to use while at the hospice. Cat went on to set up a JustGiving page to raise money to help the hospice to buy our own bed.

On her fundraising page, Cat explained: "From the moment I arrived I have been shown such incredible care and kindness. Every single member of staff and volunteer is an amazing human being, who take their time to make life better for others. It is one of the most peaceful and calm places I have ever visited, and I feel so appreciative of being cared for here.

"I would like to try to give something back to Katharine House... this would be the best birthday gift I could ask for.

"I am hopeful that all money raised will go towards a 'cuddle bed' for the hospice. Archie and I have been really fortunate to use a loaned cuddle bed while we have been here. They are widthways extending beds that enable families to snuggle up with their loved ones and spend precious time together in comfort!"

Cat was able to raise just over £9,000 towards the cuddle bed! We are so incredibly grateful to Cat and all her friends and family who helped make this possible.

Cat’s former workplace, Volkswagen Group UK, also kindly donated £1,000. And to get us across the finish line, The Francis Winham Foundation donated a phenomenal £10,000 to help us reach our total and buy our own cuddle bed.

Thanks to everyone who helped us reach our goal, we’re already able to offer patients in our care the chance to make use of our cuddle bed. Cat has left an incredible and lasting legacy at Katharine House. 

Please help us help people like Cat

It is thanks to the donations of our wonderful supporters that we're able to continue providing care to people affected by life-limiting illnesses and their families, helping them make the most of the time they have left and create quality memories with their loved ones. If you would like to make a donation, please click on the button below.

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