Grieving parents will be able to make cherished memories with their babies before saying their final goodbye, thanks to a heartfelt donation by a Blackburn mum.
Cassie Owens has donated a cuddle cot to Lancashire Women’s and Newborn Centre (LWNC) in memory of her daughter Bonnie, who passed away at six-weeks-old in March 2023.
A cuddle cot is a cooling device that allows parents to spend extended time with their stillborn or deceased baby, giving parents a precious opportunity to bond and hold their baby.
Cassie, who began fundraising in Bonnie’s memory after her loss, said: "The experience of losing Bonnie is the reason for my fundraising.
“Through my loss, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of cuddle cots and the invaluable extra time they give to parents and families following the loss of their precious baby.
“I feel proud to be able to do this in my daughter’s name. To see the plaque with her name written on it is wonderful — a physical gift to others from my girl."
The donation to LWNC at Burnley Hospital was made in partnership with Sarah Bernosconi Parsons, of Maggie’s Stillbirth Legacy, and will help ensure other families facing the unimaginable heartbreak of losing a baby are given space, time and dignity to grieve.
Nikki Galloway, Bereavement Specialist Midwife at Lancashire Women’s and Newborn Centre, expressed her gratitude: "The cuddle cot is such an invaluable piece of equipment, offering families precious time with their baby after a loss.
“For parents who are grieving, the ability to hold their baby, make memories and say goodbye in a peaceful and respectful manner can be an important part of the healing process.
“We are deeply touched by the generosity of Cassie and her family in honouring Bonnie’s memory in this way. It will make a real difference to other families who are facing the same unimaginable loss."
The donation is only the beginning of Cassie’s commitment to helping others. She has pledged to continue fundraising to maintain the cuddle cot and to support other parents and families experiencing the loss of a baby.
For more information on ELHT’s maternity bereavement services, visit the Maternity and Newborn Services webpage or if you would like to make a donation, visit www.elhtandme.co.uk