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Southern Downs families can now be closer to their loved ones in palliative care, connecting physically, as well as emotionally when they say their final goodbyes.
A cuddle bed is an oversized bed that allows enough room for family members to lay together in hospital.
The simple yet impactful piece of equipment is now in the wards of Warwick Hospital, thanks to a generous donation in honour of Flight Lieutenant Belinda McGowan.
The local resident was a serving RAAF Officer and passed away at Warwick Hospital in 2021.
Darling Downs Health Board Chair, Mike Horan acknowledged the legacy that Belinda has left.
“I’d like to thank Bruce McGowan for helping to realise Belinda’s final wish of donating this important piece of equipment to the Warwick Hospital,” Mr Horan said.
“Our staff work to make people as comfortable and supported as possible, and give families the time they need with their loved one.”
“This cuddle bed gives us the opportunity to make these final moments as memorable and comfortable as possible.”
Palliative care teams often say that patients can hear right up until they pass, so being able to talk to a family member in their final moments is an important part of care.
Belinda’s family, friends, Royal Australian Air Force colleagues, and special guests attended an emotional ceremony in Warwick today to officially hand over the cuddle bed.
Bruce McGowan said his wife would have been exceptionally proud.
“It’s a very special day because it’s allowing me, on behalf of my beautiful wife Belinda to give back to the community,” Mr McGowan said.
“And to be able to put one of these beautiful cuddle beds into our hospital to help future patients is just so important.”
“She never liked the fuss, but I’m sure she’d be really proud today. Belinda was always about giving back and being kind.”
Royal Australian Air Force Group Captain Iain Carty said it was an honour to attend the ceremony, having known Belinda for many years.
“I’d like to commend the effort, commitment and dedication of Bruce and the team that put this all together,” Group Captain Carty said.
The donation was also made possible by the Warwick RSL and Royal Australian Air Force, with the hope that more cuddle beds will soon roll out in other regional hospitals.