Childhood dementia includes more than 100 different conditions that progressively damage a child’s brain. Bear Cottage is privileged to support many children and families affected by these heartbreaking diagnoses. Jack, Kye’s dad, shares their journey.

We were honoured to welcome 90 family members and friends to our annual 𝗔 𝗟𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗶𝗲𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗲 (ALPOM) exhibition, held at the International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS).

This beautiful initiative, created in collaboration with artist Andrew Christie, the Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation Art Program and the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network Palliative Care teams, invites families to create a photographic pixel portrait using 30 specially chosen photos that come together to form the portrait of their beloved child.

One of the joys of being part of the Bear Cottage community is staying in touch with families who have been with us over many years. We were delighted to recently hear from the Brown family, who shared a heart-warming update about their daughter Erin and son Denver.

Many of our Sydney families are familiar with the magic of Vivid – the time of year when the city comes alive with dazzling lights, vibrant projections, music and ideas. This year, that magic took on an even deeper meaning, as some of our Bear Cottage families had the chance to be a part of it.

Why is it that when we hear the words palliative care, our hearts sink?

Although Beau’s future is filled with many unknowns, Nicole is determined to provide her little boy with the best quality of life possible

"Our son, Sol, was four weeks old when his care was transferred to Bear Cottage, the children's hospice for NSW. It was scary and felt bittersweet, but this quickly turned into a heart-warming and cherished experience.

This July marks the fourth anniversary of Lili's passing and for Mum Sara, taking part in the A Little Piece of Me project had come at the perfect time. "It's a way to keep my beautiful Miss Lili's memory alive."

On Thursday 17th of March 2001 - 21 years ago, Bear Cottage officially swung open its doors and became the first children's hospice in NSW. Since its humble beginning, Bear Cottage has cared for more than 1000 children and their families.

We often reflect on the unique relationships that are built and nurtured with the children and families in our care.