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A brand-new cuddle bed at Toowoomba Hospital’s Oncology Unit is bringing comfort and connection to end-of-life care.
The combination bed is designed to allow loved ones to lie side-by-side, enabling dignity and togetherness for palliative care patients.
It is the second bed gifted to Darling Downs Health in the last three months, thanks to the generosity and kindness of The Belinda McGowan Foundation.
Darling Downs Health Service Chief Executive, Annette Scott PSM, said the cuddle bed initiative was changing lives in the region.
“This is a gift of comfort, dignity, and connection for patients in palliative care and their loved ones,” she said.
"Cuddle beds play a vital role in palliative and end of life care by offering patients the opportunity to remain close and connected with their loved ones"
Darling Downs Health Chief Executive Annette Scott PSM
“I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our clinical nurse Amanda Seeney, whose efforts were instrumental in bringing this initiative to life. Her commitment to improving patient experience is truly appreciated.”
Acting Nurse Manager of Regional Cancer Care, Georgie Lonergan, said the cuddle bed was already making a difference.
“We sincerely thank Bruce and the Belinda McGowan Foundation for their generous donation of the cuddle bed, which is already making a meaningful difference for patients and their families during the difficult transition of end-of-life care,” she said.
“Special thanks to Amanda Seeney, Clinical Nurse and former Acting Nurse Unit Manager, for her dedication and tireless efforts in bringing this initiative to fruition.
“Regional Cancer Care is grateful for this support, which enables the team to continue providing compassionate care and fostering connection between patients and their loved ones during these critical moments.”
The donation was made in honour of the life and legacy of Beck Johnson who passed away in 2025 following a bowel cancer diagnosis at just 43.
Beck was a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished daughter, sister and friend to so many. Her strength, compassion and advocacy continue to inspire the work of The Belinda McGowan Foundation.
Foundation Founder Bruce McGowan said the cuddle bed would make meaningful impact to patients’ lives.
“Days like this aren’t about delivery - they’re about impact,” he said.
“Knowing that families at Toowoomba Hospital can now share comfort and connection when it matters most is incredibly meaningful to us.”
Since 2022, seven cuddle bed combinations have been provided to Darling Downs Health.