Truth be told, I wanted my story to be heard. I’d be lying if I said that when I started Cuddle for Keeps, I didn’t hope everyone would one day know about it. I dreamed it would grow into a household name (still dreaming on that one!) and that somehow, it would reach more people than I could imagine – people who needed comfort, connection or a simple reminder that someone cared.
From the beginning, I contacted several news reporters – surely, someone would see the benefit of sharing a story of loss, motherhood, working in healthcare, and how all those experiences would piece together to create something meaningful for families – something that gives back to neonatal, maternal and mental health care. But, sadly, I received crickets in return. No email responses, no interest, nothing.
A few weeks before being featured on CTV News, I met with my high-risk obstetrician, Dr. John Kingdom, via Zoom to give him an update on where I was with my business. He’s the one who brought my now 13 and 10 year old children into this world, after I lost my first son to stillbirth. I have been forever indebted to him and his team and have kept in touch with him over the years. While we chatted, he mentioned that he published a recent study on placental growth factor, and that it was just highlighted across several news outlets. He suggested I have a listen to the broadcast, and I did.
Serendipity
Dr. Kingdom appeared on both CTV News and CityNews with reporters Pauline Chan and Michelle Mackey, respectively. That’s where a lightbulb went off! I contacted both Pauline and Michelle and within a few short hours, received a response from both of them. They were each interested in running my story. Due to other breaking news priorities, Michelle respectfully bowed out but Pauline stayed on course.
We set a filming date, partnered with grief and trauma coach Kieran Powers, founder of Becoln, and off we went. Kieran is an expert on the emotional impact of grief and loss, and there is no one who could have stepped into this better than her.
Was I nervous leading up to the filming date?
Nah.
Was I nervous on filming date?
Yeah!
But Pauline, having been in the business for decades, knew exactly how to calm my fears. She was warm, professional, and so easy to work with. Her ability to ask thoughtful, compassionate questions and create space for vulnerable storytelling made the whole experience feel deeply human.
In the end, I realized that it’s true what they say – Good things come to those who wait.
Of all the news reporters I had contacted over the previous year, I truly believe I was meant to work with Pauline. She brought my story to life in a way that I don’t think anyone else could have. Her suggestion to include Kieran’s voice added depth, context and healing that many viewers needed. Together, we created something meaningful – not just a segment, but a moment of connection for families across Canada.
The Ripple Effect
Thanks to Pauline’s vision and belief in Cuddle for Keeps, I’ve connected with so many families across Canada. The outpouring of support was immediate and powerful. The heartfelt emails and messages I’ve received, from strangers, simply saying “thank you”, moved me to tears.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – Cuddle for Keeps is more than just a business, it’s a movement. A message. A mission.
And it’s making a difference.
With Gratitude
Thank you, Pauline, for believing in me and Cuddle for Keeps when others didn’t.
Thank you, Kieran, for standing beside me and lending your voice to the story.
And thank you to all of you – the readers, believers, supporters – from day one to today. Whether you’ve ordered a bear, shared my story, or simply sent a kind message, it means the world to me.
Cuddle,
Suzanne
