Honoring Tiny Lives Through Time
Connected Forever and the Impact of CuddleCot
When a baby’s life is heartbreakingly short, the love their family feels is anything but. For families navigating pregnancy loss, infant loss, or a stay in the NICU, support can shape how those moments are remembered and carried forward. Connected Forever was founded on that understanding. Rooted in lived experience and compassion, the organization has spent more than a decade walking alongside families across Nebraska, ensuring they are seen, supported, and never alone. Their commitment to donating CuddleCots is one meaningful way they help give families something every parent deserves, time.
Tell us about Connected Forever and what you do to support families:
Connected Forever was established in 2014 after seeing a need for support for NICU and Bereaved families in Nebraska. Our mission is to support families who experience pregnancy and infant loss or a NICU stay through resources, education, and emotional support. We offer one-on-one mentors, support groups, online support groups, care packages, and events.
What inspired Connected Forever to support CuddleCot donations? Our founders, Jesse and Tracy Pella, experienced losing one of their twin sons, Cohen. After hearing about the Cuddle Cot, they wanted to ensure families were given the gift of time with their baby.
When possible, we partner with families who wish to honor their baby through a named dedication.
How many CuddleCots have been donated to date, and where are they placed?
January 23rd will be our 12th donation across Nebraska.
Regional West Health Services – Scottsbluff
Mary Lanning Healthcare- Hastings
Providence Medical Center- Wayne
CHI St. Elizabeth- Lincoln
Bryan Health – Lincoln
Bryan Kearney Regional – Kearney
Nebraska Medicine – Omaha
Children’s – Omaha
Beatrice Community Hospital – Beatrice
CHI – Lakeside – Omaha
Fillmore County Hospital – Geneva
CHI St. Mary’s – Nebraska City (January 2026)
Why was CuddleCot important to you as an organization?
It allowed us to make an impact on families all across our state. Also, supporting the incredible providers and hospitals who support families during their journeys.
What impact have you seen or heard about from families or healthcare teams?
Having the gift of time with the Cuddle Cot is irreplaceable. I’ve heard that families know they are being supported by the healthcare providers when they are given the chance to utilize the Cuddle Cot.
What message would you like families navigating loss to know about asking for time and support after loss?
To know you are not alone. There are resources to support you during this journey. Seek out those who have experienced loss and you will find connection. Grief and support look different for each of us. Not all support will fit what your family needs and that’s ok. Advocate for what you need and never be sorry for that.
What’s next for Connected Forever?
Continue to grow our impact to ensure no family walks their journey alone.
Where can people find more information and get involved with your work?
Website: connected4ever.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/connectedforever.org
Instagram: connectedforeverne
Connected Forever’s work is a powerful reminder that support does not end at the hospital doors. Through mentorship, community, and thoughtful initiatives like CuddleCot donations, they continue to honor babies’ lives while standing beside the families who love them. As their reach grows across Nebraska, so does the message at the heart of everything they do. No family should have to walk this journey alone, and no parent should feel afraid to ask for the time, care, and support they need.
To learn more about the CuddleCot contact: usainfo@cuddlecot.com
Learn about the CuddleCot: