Generous Donation Helps South Gippsland Hospital Enhance End-of-Life Care for Local Families

South Gippsland Hospital is pleased to acknowledge the extraordinary generosity of John Cogo and Heather Phelan, whose donation has enabled the purchase of specialised cuddle beds to support patients and their loved ones during some of life’s most important moments. The donation was made to support the hospital’s ongoing commitment to compassionate, family-centred end-of-life care. A donation of $25,000 from John and Heather was received earlier this year to support this important initiative.

Cuddle beds are specially designed hospital beds that can safely expand, allowing a family member or loved one to lie beside a patient. For people receiving end-of-life care, this simple yet powerful feature enables families to remain physically close, providing comfort, connection, and dignity during their final days together.

Director of Nursing and Chief Midwife, Kylie Osborne, said the addition of the cuddle beds represents another significant step in the development of end-of-life care services at South Gippsland Hospital.

“Being together matters. These beds will help families stay close to their loved ones when it matters most, providing comfort, reassurance, and precious moments of connection. We are incredibly grateful to John and Heather for their generosity and for helping us enhance the care we provide to our community.”

The cuddle beds complement a broader program of improvements aimed at strengthening the end-of-life experience for patients and families at South Gippsland Hospital.

As part of this commitment, the hospital will soon commence refurbishment of the former patient lounge, transforming the area into a dedicated Family Comfort Room. The space is being thoughtfully redesigned to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for families spending extended periods at the hospital while caring for a loved one. Staff consultation has highlighted the importance of creating a calming, restorative space that supports family wellbeing and connection.

The refurbishment will include a number of improvements, including:

• A locally inspired outdoor feature mural created to bring a sense of nature and detail to the space
• A new kitchenette to allow families to prepare refreshments and maintain a sense of normality
• A dedicated study and work nook with technology access
• New blinds, carpet and fresh paint throughout
• Comfortable furnishings designed to support rest, privacy and connection

The Family Comfort Room will provide families with a quiet retreat where they can spend time together, take a break, work remotely if needed, or simply find a moment of comfort during what can be an emotionally challenging time.

South Gippsland Hospital CEO Paul Greenhalgh said community generosity continues to play an important role in helping the hospital create environments that support both patients and families.

“The kindness and support shown by our community enables us to deliver improvements that make a genuine difference. The cuddle beds and the Family Comfort Room are examples of how thoughtful investments can significantly enhance the experience of patients and families receiving care at South Gippsland Hospital.”

Construction of the Family Comfort Room is expected to begin shortly, with the new space set to further strengthen the hospital’s ability to provide compassionate, person-centred end-of-life care for the South Gippsland community.

South Gippsland Hospital sincerely thank John Cogo and Heather Phelan for their generosity, compassion, and support of local healthcare.