In a heartfelt tribute to their daughter Bonnie, who sadly passed away in December 2024, the Haswell family has donated a Cuddle Cot to the Maternity Unit at Darlington Memorial Hospital.
Stephanie Haswell, accompanied by her sister Kimberly, visited the hospital to present the Cuddle Cot donation.
The donation, which was made possible through fundraising efforts led by Kimberly and supported by their mother, also included a Smart TV and a selection of gifts for ward staff as a gesture of gratitude.
The donation is a reflection of the family's deep appreciation for the compassionate care and support they received from staff at Darlington Memorial Hospital during their most difficult time.
Stephanie shared that the Cuddle Cot had offered her and her loved ones precious time with Bonnie; time to say goodbye, create memories, and begin to process their grief without the pressure of rushed goodbyes.
“A Cuddle Cot gives grieving parents the opportunity to spend valuable time with their baby, to take photos, welcome family, and say goodbye in their own time,” said Stephanie.
“It meant so much to us, and we hope it brings comfort to other families in the same way it did for ours.”
The Cuddle Cot, provided in partnership with baby loss charity 4Louis, can also be used by families at home, offering a more private and familiar environment for their time together.
Jenna Goat, Specialist Midwife for Bereavement Care at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are incredibly thankful to Stephanie, Kimberly, and their family for this generous and meaningful gift. The Cuddle Cot will make a lasting difference for families experiencing the loss of a baby, and we are honoured to help carry Bonnie’s legacy forward.”
Stephanie added: “We’ll always be thankful for the care we received. Donating the Cuddle Cot is our way of giving back and keeping Bonnie’s memory alive.”
A spokesperson from 4Louis said: "We are deeply honoured to have been able to support Stephanie and her family in their fundraising efforts for the Cuddle Cot, a touching tribute to her beloved daughter Bonnie April."
