Octopuses help to heal premature babies at Scunthorpe Hospital
After tragically losing her baby at five days old, Pippa wants to help premature babies have a better chance of survival at Scunthorpe Hospital’s neo-natal unit and toy octopuses are linked to better health and wellbeing for young babies.
Pippa said: “Scientists from Denmark discovered that babies cuddling an octopus were more likely to not pull on the wires and tubes in their incubator. They also found they had a calming effect on the baby which promoted better breathing and a more regular heartbeat.”
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Hide AdShe added: “Too many families go through what we went through with Saoirse and I wanted to do something creative and positive to help other people in memory of her. The toy octopuses help to provide a safe and calming environment for babies.
She said: “My mum and friend are helping teach me how to crochet the toys. I was amazed at how little time it takes to make them. I just hope that this appeal acts as a ripple effect and lots of others behind the idea.”
NICU ward sister, Sarah Judd said: “What a fantastic idea. When babies are in NICU they pull on wires in the incubator, so hopefully this will stop them doing that.”