Expect to see some adorable new faces around Kingston General Hospital next week. A few hundred plush teddy bears have arrived in preparation for the annual Auxiliary Teddy Bear Campaign that kicks off next week in the Watkins lobby.
"The teddies are ready. Now all they need are sponsors," says Heather Breck, Co-Chair of the KGH Auxiliary Teddy Bear Campaign. "Buying a bear for $100 will support the purchase of pediatric equipment and ensure that these comforting toys reach children who need them at KGH and Hotel Dieu," she says.
As each bear is purchased, it will be placed on the festive trees in the Watkins lobby wearing a tag bearing its sponsor's name. This year, 28 bears have been pre-sponsored as a tribute to Teddy Bear Campaign volunteer Toni Borhi. Before her passing, Borhi shared her wish that memorial donations be directed toward this year's campaign. "These bears will honour Toni's memory," says Breck.
This year's campaign goal is $20,000, or 200 bears - funds that will be used to purchase a VeinVisualizer machine. "The machine will make the process of drawing blood or starting IV fluids much easier for our youngest patients," says Neonatologist Dr. Bob Connelly. "And that means fewer pokes for little ones."
Once the campaign wraps, the sponsored bears will be given to children at KGH and Hotel Dieu. "These plush toys help children get through a time when they feel unsure," says Breck.
With the holidays fast approaching, Breck asks departments to consider sponsoring a bear as part of upcoming team celebrations. "A small amount of money pooled from a number of colleagues is all it takes," she says.
The campaign runs from November 12 to December 19 and is being generously sponsored by the Kawartha Credit Union.
To purchase a bear, pick up one of the sponsorship forms on the festive trees in the Watkins Lobby, drop by the Auxiliary office at KGH or call 613-549-6666 ext. 6352.
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