Community comes together to help bring cuddle bed to hospital’s end of life unit

A group of family and friends are raising funds for a specialist cuddle bed for The QEH Peddars Way Unit in memory of local farmer Jason Carr.

Jason, who died from cancer earlier this year aged 54, was cared for on Peddars Way Unit at The QEH during his final days. Inspired by the compassionate care he received, his family and friends are raising money for future patients and their loved ones.

The group are fundraising to raise £15,000 to purchase a cuddle bed. A cuddle bed is a specialist bed can extend to form a double bed, allowing patients and their families to be comfortable and lie together during precious end-of-life moments.

Jason’s partner, Angela, said: “Twenty-four years is a lifetime of memories, love and partnership. When I lost Jason to cancer, everything happened so quickly. During his final days on the Peddars Way Unit the compassion and kindness shown to us will never be forgotten.

“As Jason became weaker, all I wanted was to lie beside him, hold him close and let him know he wasn’t alone. A cuddle bed would have made that possible.

“At the end of life, human touch becomes more important than ever. It offers reassurance, warmth and love when words are no longer enough.

“I hope that by sharing Jason’s story, we can help make this possible for other families. If a cuddle bed can give even one family the chance to be close at the end of life, it will be a lasting legacy of love and compassion.”

So far, several community fundraising events have already taken place, including sponsored cycling challenges and the Cambridge Half Marathon, with more than £8,000 raised towards the appeal.

Robert Melton, one of the fundraisers, said: “Jason was a dear friend to us all, with a truly kind and generous heart. He would have done anything for anyone, and he is missed more than words can say.

“By raising money for a cuddle bed in Jason’s memory, we hope other families can experience the comfort of being close to their loved ones when it matters most. It would be a lasting tribute to the kindness and love that Jason showed throughout his life.”

Emma Clark, Consultant Specialist Nurse in Palliative Care, shared: “At the end of life, it’s often the simplest moments that mean the most. A cuddle bed allows patients to remain close to the people they love, providing comfort, dignity and precious time together when every moment counts.

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported this appeal so far. The kindness and generosity shown by Jason’s family, friends and the wider community will help make a real difference to the experience of future patients and their loved ones receiving care on Peddars Way Unit.”

Anyone wishing to support the appeal and help bring a cuddle bed to the Peddars Way Unit can donate via David Shaw’s JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/page/david-shaw-peddars-way

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Notes to editors;

If you would like to raise funds for good causes or help an appeal at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, please take a look at our website www.qehklcharity.co.uk. Alternatively, please email our Charity team at [email protected] or call 01553 613309.

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For media enquiries only, please contact Communications Team, [email protected] or 01553 613216.

For all other enquiries, please contact QEH Switchboard on 01553 613613.

About QEHKL Charity: QEHKL Charity plays a vital role in supporting The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn. The charity raises funds for medical equipment, research, services, and facilities that directly benefit patients and their families. With its support, QEHKL can provide high-quality care, expand services, and improve the hospital experience for those in need.

Posted on: July 10 2026    •    Posted in: Community Heroes, Fundraising, Peddars Way Unit