Born and bred in Wellington, Jo Klitscher has always been a people person. “I seem to attract conversations in lifts, supermarkets or even on the bus,” she laughs. But it’s her warmth, compassion and calm presence that make her a perfect fit for her volunteer role in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Wellington Regional Hospital.
While looking for ways to give back, Jo came across a call for “Cuddle Buddies” and was intrigued. “I honestly didn’t think it could be a real role,” she says. “But after looking into it and going through training, I found myself part of a new venture supporting the tiniest patients and their families during some of the hardest days of their lives.”
As one of the first volunteers in the new NICU Cuddle Buddy programme, Jo provides more than just cuddles. “It’s also about supporting staff and parents,” she explains. “Sometimes that means folding baby clothes, restocking supplies, or keeping the family lounge calm and inviting. Other times it’s holding a parent’s hand or offering quiet companionship in a moment of stress.”
For many parents, that kindness makes a lasting impact. Amanda, whose son Leo spent time in NICU, remembers how much the Cuddle Buddies meant to her. “I had an emergency C-section and was unable to visit Leo for 24 hours. During that time, one of the lovely cuddle buddy ladies met my mum, and signed us up.”
Amanda adds, “They didn’t just cuddle Leo – they comforted me too. NICU can be such an isolating and overwhelming place. Having someone cheerful to talk to, someone who helped me feel like I was still showing off my new baby, even though nothing had gone to plan, is something I’ll cherish forever. Thank you for holding both our hands when we were most vulnerable.”
For Jo, moments like this are deeply meaningful. “One mum said to me, ‘You can be my family for now.’ Another asked me to hold her hand during an exam. And one just said, ‘I need a cuddle.’ That’s all. That’s what we’re here for.”
“All it takes is a smile and some kindness,” Jo says. “And I’ve got plenty of both to give.”
She adds, “When I leave the hospital, I feel content knowing I’ve helped, even just a little. It’s an honour to be part of something so special, and to have been involved since the beginning, with amazing support from the Wellington Hospitals Foundation team.”
Thank you, Jo, for the care you bring to the NICU every week and for helping families feel supported, seen and never alone.
If you’d like to Volunteer with us we’d love to hear from you.