STEVEN Smith played a marathon session of Japanese computer game Final Fantasy IX to raise funds for a cuddle cot in memory of his nephew Peter who was stillborn.
His brother Nathan and sister-in-law Elisha Smith found comfort in being able to spend time with Peter following his birth thanks to a cuddle cot at St John of God Midland Public Hospital.
A cuddle cot circulates cold air continuously underneath a bassinet, allowing patients and families to spend time with their stillborn babies.
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READ NOWMr Smith said he was pleased to use his love of gaming to raise funds for a second cuddle cot for the hospital.
“We raised $6000 by playing Japanese game Final Fantasy IX within 10 hours and live streaming the game for others to watch and donate funds,” he said.
“It was fantastic to see such great community support and we quickly reached our target through donations from around the world.
“The generosity of this donation continues to honour the life of Peter and we are very grateful for this wonderful gift.”
St John of God Midland Public Hospital chief executive Michael Hogan said they were extremely grateful for the donation of the cuddle cot and the fundraising efforts by the family.
“We are strong advocates for providing as much support and care as possible to enable parents to grieve the loss of their child,” he said.
“We are aware that for parents of stillborn babies, every minute with their child becomes a lifetime of memories.”
Nathan and Elisha are now proud parents to baby May, who was born a week before her brother Peter’s first birthday.
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