A lifting apparatus with a substantially horizontal crossbeam having a first end pivotally connected to a first side of a bed frame and a second end pivotally connected to a second side of the bed frame. A rod has a free first end and a second end fixedly connected to the cross beam. A clamp secures the crossbeam from pivoting. Tension members are securedly attached on one end to a flat bar and on the other end to a point disposed between the first and second ends of the rod.