MARYVALE Private Hospital has launched its annual fundraising appeal with a deeply personal initiative, raising money for a palliative care ‘cuddle bed’ – a specially designed bed that expands to allow loved ones to lie beside patients in their final days.
The initiative was sparked by the story of Simon Lund, a long-serving CFA staff member and volunteer who dedicated more than 25 years to serving the Victorian community.
Throughout his career, Simon responded to nearly every major emergency in recent decades from bushfires and floods to mine fires. His commitment on the frontline, however, came at a devastating personal cost when he was diagnosed with a terminal illness linked to toxic exposure during his service.
In his final chapter, Simon received palliative care at Maryvale Private Hospital, where the importance of closeness and comfort for families became clear. His wife Tracie, and the Lund family joined forces with the hospital to raise money for a cuddle bed, ensuring other families could share those precious final moments with dignity, love and connection.
Thanks to the generosity of the community and the Lund family’s efforts, the fundraising goal was achieved.
The cuddle bed has since been purchased and was officially unveiled at the hospital by Tracie Lund, marking a moving tribute to her husband’s service and sacrifice.
“This addition enhances our palliative care services and demonstrates Maryvale’s continued commitment to patient-centred care,” Maryvale Private Hospital Chief Executive, Daniel Scholtes said.
“We are deeply grateful to the Lund family and the wider community for their generosity and support. It is a privilege to help honour Simon’s legacy in such a meaningful way.”
Simon’s story also shines a spotlight on the urgent need for legislative change to better protect emergency workers for occupational illnesses. But within Maryvale’s walls, his legacy now lives on in a bed that ensures families can share their last moments with love and dignity.
