Cuddle cot fundraiser hits target

SUCCESS: Five thousand dollars was raised in just six days by the Wairarapa Community.

'A CUDDLE for Beau' has received unprecedented support from the Wairarapa community, reaching the Cuddle Cot target of $5000 in just six days.

A Cuddle Cot is a cooling system that allows grieving families to spend precious moments with their stillborn child in the comfort of their own homes.

Though many cities and large towns in New Zealand have access to one, this project will bring the first Cuddle Cot to Wairarapa Hospital.

Mother and creator of the Cuddle Cot fundraiser, Courtney Percy, said that she and her partner Nick Olson were speechless. In January the couple's son Beau was "born sleeping at 36 weeks".

"The response has been overwhelming," she said.

"We have decided to keep the Givealittle page going and the money that will come in from the raffles will cover the costs of freight and import taxes, and will, hopefully, enable us to buy a bassinet and linen."

"What's left will, hopefully, go into a trust to help maintain the cot and can go towards counselling for the families who are affected.

"I was able to access a counsellor," she said.

"But unfortunately not everyone in this situation can."

"With this amazing support, who knows what could be established to help others in this very sad situation."

Courtney said that businesses are still reaching out to donate to 'A Cuddle for Beau'.

Hebe Designer Boutique owners Danni and Johnny Burkhart were one of the first businesses to support the project, donating a gift voucher for the raffle.

"Courtney is an amazing woman, and mother," Mrs Burkhart said.

"It's extremely sad and tragic for anyone to go through this and as a mother I can completely understand.

"I think a lot of people aren't aware that there are just so many things that you can do now in that situation."

The total raised as of yesterday was $5320. However, donations are still welcome to support the cause.