Works are almost complete on the Quiet Room at CUMH, a quiet haven for parents and families who have experienced pregnancy loss. At this point all of the painting work has been finished, a new sofa, curtains and wooden flooring have been installed and custom-made furniture has been created for the specific needs of the Quiet Room.
The Quiet Room Appeal raised over €60,000 this past year for a very special place under the Bereavement and Loss Service at CUMH. This special area is a quiet haven for parents who are experiencing Pregnancy Loss and Bereavement. It is a space where parents can go to find a sanctuary, a room where many of them will say their final goodbyes to their loved ones. CUH Charity and our CUMH donors have helped to turn that room into a more comfortable, intimate and private haven for parents. Having a comfortable private space is so important to parents because it is there that they will spend some of the most precious moments of their lives. The Quiet Room is a respectful environment away from the busy wards while at the same time close to the mothers’ bed, to avoid distress from separation. The Quiet Room is central to each parent and families’ bereavement experience and provides a sense of relief and comfort during challenging times.
Ceremonies and prayers also take place in the Quiet Room. Dr Daniel Nuzum and all of the Bereavement Care team at CUMH, which is made up of midwives, consultants, social workers, chaplains, ultrasonograghers, post-mortem technical staff, pathology staff and ward staff have worked with artist Eoin Turner to create beautifully designed glass mementos to commemorate loved ones.
The work of our Bereavement Midwives Orla O’Connell and Anna Maria were featured earlier this year in the Cork Independent.
Orla and Anna Maria’s daily work involves supporting parents who are experiencing all types of pregnancy loss, stillbirth and miscarriage. They are on hand to comfort parents, offer advice and support, provide perninatal and pallitiave care, run Pregnancy and Loss clinics and actively participate in the Pregnancy Loss Research Group led by Dr. Keelin O’ Donoghue.
What keeps Orla and Anna Maria, these two remarkable women going on a daily basis? They told us that it really helps that they work together as a team and can support each other. Both women find the experience humbling and fulfilling in helping others find their way through dark times. They are inspired by meeting amazing people, people who are at their most vulnerable, and are very grateful for the close relationships they develop. Orla said their work “comes from a very heartfelt and spiritual place.”
