Best of the web: Cuddle cot story touches hearts

Courtney Percy, with partner Nick Olson and their families, were praised for their fundraising effort. Photo / File

The Times-Age story of a mother raising money for a cuddle cot, a specially equipped cot to take home stillborn babies, had nearly 31,000 views, 440 likes and 29 shares.

In the story, Masterton's Courtney Percy, who created the "A Cuddle for Beau" Givealittle donations page, said she had been overwhelmed with the flood of community support to fundraise a "cuddle cot", a $5000 cot from Britain, which she wanted for Wairarapa Hospital's maternity wing.

Ms Percy, whose baby Beau was stillborn, was able to take Beau home for family photos using a makeshift cot with icepacks.

She realised other parents would like the opportunity for a "last cuddle" and photos, using better equipment.

Her story touched many on Facebook.

Julie Fauvel wrote: "Sincere condolences for your loss. What a great idea not only for stillborn children but for those that may live only a day/few days.

"I hope you are able to get it for the Wairarapa families. Thank you to everyone that supports this project."

Andrea Keating said Ms Percy and her partner, Nick, were "amazing people" to do this for grieving families.

Michelle McNaughton, who lost her baby girl last year, said it would be a great thing for Wairarapa.

"Thank you so much for doing this, for the lovely families that need it so much."

The Givealittle page reached its target within days of going up.