About
Reinforcing Bonds and Providing Comfort During Separation
It all started with a simple conversation with my dear friend, Katie, who just so happens to be my talented hairdresser. Katie’s husband was preparing to deploy to Afghanistan straight from basic training for a six-month tour. As we chatted about how tough it is for kids during those long separations, we joked that what we really needed were cuddly daddies.
And that’s when Katie asked me, ‘Will you make me one?’
After two long evenings of sewing, unpicking, and sewing some more, the first Huggable Hero was born! Katie sent me a photo of her 4-year-old daughter, Abi, wrapped in a warm hug with her new Hero. That moment sparked something magical and Huggable Heroes® was born!
Seeing that warmth and connection, I knew I had to make my own children a hero for their dad, Mikey.
At the time, my daughter Charlotte was just 2 ½, and my son Henry was only 6 months old. Mikey worked away Monday to Friday, and weekends were always bittersweet. Charlotte would cling to me for hours, not wanting to go near Mikey. It broke his heart because all he wanted was to cuddle and play with his little girl when he came home.
So, after a little convincing, Mikey agreed to become a Huggable Hero and the results were nothing short of incredible! Within just five days, Charlotte and Daddy’s bond transformed. Daddy Cuddles came along to swimming lessons, gymnastics, picnics, and countless family adventures he didn’t miss a moment!
Then came the moment that still brings tears to my eyes: On the first Friday evening, Mikey returned home from work. Instead of running to me, Charlotte ran across the room, grabbed her Huggable Hero, and handed it to Daddy. We both stood in disbelief. It was pure magic.
Mikey continued to work away for another 8 years, leaving on Sunday nights after bedtime. But Daddy Cuddles was always there to fill the void. Before he left, Mikey would shower it with cuddles and kisses, reminding the kids that whenever they missed Daddy, they could hug Daddy Cuddles and send their love straight to him.
During the week, ‘Daddy Cuddles’ continued to be part of every family adventure. The kids proudly took him to school, where he was a favourite during show-and-tell, and even helped the teachers in class. Teachers have embraced ‘Daddy Cuddles’, using it to connect with children emotionally and help them express their needs.
Huggable Heroes® has grown organically, fuelled by word-of-mouth and 100% positive feedback. Teachers and parents alike have seen how these heroes help children feel safe, secure, and loved.
Now, 11 years since it all began, we’ve had the privilege of helping thousands of families in all sorts of situations whether it’s due to bereavement, living apart from grandparents, working shifts, military deployments or blended families where siblings live separately. It’s truly an honor that so many people have trusted us to support their families during tough times. We feel an incredible sense of pride every time we receive photos and reviews sharing
how Huggable Heroes® have transformed family lives. More often than not, we find ourselves wiping away tears of joy!
What an adventure Huggable Heroes® has been so far, who knows where this incredible journey will take us next? We can’t wait to find out!
Much love
Jo & Julia x