A Gift of Comfort: Cuddle Bed Donation to K-Life Residential
A gift of comfort and closeness, bringing dignity and love to life’s final moments.
On Friday 21 March 2025, K-Life Residential was honoured to receive the generous donation of a palliative care cuddle bed—thanks to the extraordinary kindness of the McGowan Foundation and the collective efforts of our local community.
The presentation, held at our Killarney facility, was more than just a handover—it was a heartfelt moment that reminded us all of what truly matters in end-of-life care: connection, dignity, and love.
The morning began with a warm welcome and a reading of the Ode by Dennis Pollard, President of RSL South West District, honouring the spirit of service and compassion that underpins this donation. Bruce McGowan shared the story behind the McGowan Foundation, expressing deep thanks to the donors who made this gift possible. Greg Eather then spoke movingly on behalf of the donor families, reflecting on their shared desire to ease the burden for others during life’s most vulnerable moments.
Representatives from K-Life expressed gratitude for the cuddle bed, which has already made an impact in our palliative care space. Designed to allow family members to lie beside loved ones, the cuddle bed provides physical closeness at a time when it’s most needed—bringing peace, presence, and human touch into a setting that can often feel clinical or isolating.
The Eather family presented commemorative plaques, which now accompany the bed as a permanent reminder of the community’s generosity and compassion.
After the presentation, guests shared morning tea together—an opportunity for connection, conversation, and reflection among residents, staff, families, and supporters.
This donation goes far beyond a piece of equipment. It’s a symbol of care that will continue to comfort families for years to come. We’re deeply grateful to the McGowan Foundation, the Eather family, and everyone who contributed to this extraordinary act of generosity.
At K-Life, we believe that everyone deserves to be held, not just cared for. This cuddle bed helps us do exactly that.
