Fundraiser for new Cuddle Cot

Chris Lynch
Chris Lynch
Feb 09, 2024 |

Cuddle Cots. Image: Te Whatu Ora.

A Christchurch woman is shaving her head to raise money for a new Cuddle Cot for Christchurch Women’s Hospital.

Three years ago, Solfrid Gillman’s baby died during labour and the family was fortunate to be able to spend a few days at home with their little girl.

“This was only possible because we were able to borrow a Cuddle Cot from Christchurch Women’s Hospital,” Gillman explains on her Givealittle page where she has already raised $4200 of her $5000 goal.

Te Whatu Ora said that, “When parents experience a stillbirth, it’s important for them to be able to spend time with their pēpi. A Cuddle Cot is designed to maintain a cool environment for stillborn babies and allows parents and whānau to gather their thoughts and spend precious moments with their child without time constraints.”

Gillman said, “We think that every family should have the option of spending time at home with their precious baby when the worst possible has happened.”

With thanks to Earth Organic Hairdressing on High Street, Gillman will be shaving her head next month to raise funds for an additional Cuddle Cot for the hospital, “meaning that families can spend more time with their baby”.

“Our memories of being at home with our baby are so special and important to us, and my hope is that no family misses out on this,” Gillman said.

You can find out more about this campaign at Givealittle. To find out how a Cuddle Cot works – click here.


Solfrid Gillman. Image: Earth Organic Hairdressing Facebook page.

Chris Lynch
Chris Lynch

Chris Lynch is a journalist, videographer and content producer, broadcasting from his independent news and production company in Christchurch, New Zealand. If you have a news tip or are interested in video content, email [email protected]

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