Cradling toys that ranged from plush snakes to superheroes to baby dolls, more than 1,350 children and parents took part in Greenwich Hospital’s 19th annual Teddy Bear Clinic.
Youngsters from Fairfield and Westchester counties brought their teddy bears and stuffed animals to be treated by physicians, nurses and other health professionals at the outdoor mini-hospital under tents held on Sunday, Oct. 1. More than 540 children from infants to pre-teens attended the free event.
“The Teddy Bear Clinic has become a tradition for many families because it’s a great way for children to learn about hospital services in a kid-friendly environment,” said Norman Roth, Greenwich Hospital president and chief executive officer.
Twenty hospital departments were represented, including emergency, maternity, pediatrics, respiratory services, surgery, pharmacy, cancer prevention, orthopedics, cardiology and more.
Dr. Ted E. Bear was on hand to greet the children, who began their hospital tour by bringing their stuffed toys to “admitting” and “emergency” for a diagnosis. From there, children bought their furry friends to various stations for x-rays, ultrasound, surgery, respiratory therapy, splints or stitches, depending on the diagnosis.
Greenwich Library was on hand for story time and Greenwich Emergency Medical Services provided ambulance tours.
