Hospice cuddle bed has 'made the journey easier'

Sarah Thomas said being able to cuddle her young daughter meant the world to her

North Devon Hospice has launched an appeal to raise £30,000 for a specialist clinical bed that can extend to double the width, allowing loved ones to share it and snuggle up.

Sarah Thomas, 41, from South Molton who has a terminal brain tumour, said the bed allowed her to have proper hugs with her seven-year-old daughter, which "meant the world to her".

Hannah Crawley from the hospice, said when symptoms became severe or the end of life was near, couples and family members could use the bed to lie down together for a hug or to sleep.

She said: "It gives comfort, dignity, and love – all invaluable gifts that mean so much in people's last moments."

'Huge benefit'

The Cuddle Appeal will also help fund more care in people's homes using the hospice's community teams.

Stephen Roberts, chief executive of North Devon Hospice, said when they were able to get funding for one cuddle bed they "immediately saw the huge benefit it gave to our families".

He said he was hoping through the appeal they could get at least one more cuddle bed which costs £15,000 but also be able "to keep people in the actual bed they want to be in, which is at home".

Mrs Thomas, who was diagnosed four years ago, said the bed was amazing and had "made the journey easier".

She said: "It's not a good journey and it's something you don't expect and you've got to live life as full as you can for as long as you can and this has enhanced the journey."