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April Fallon, Nurse Unit Manager at Sutherland Hospital, knows that a bear can become much more than a cuddly companion. It can be a source of comfort and a distraction during difficult moments.
“Every day, we care for children facing scary and uncertain moments. A teddy bear may seem small, but it makes an incredible difference,” she says.
“One of my favourite moments is walking into a child's room with a teddy bear hidden behind my back. Within seconds, fear turns into excitement. Suddenly, they're choosing their new friend instead of worrying about a blood pressure check or trip to theatre.”
The bears can also help nurses explain medical procedures, such as taking blood pressure or inserting a cannula, giving children the chance to see and understand what’s going to happen before it happens to them.
“We use the bears to explain what's happening through play, making the experience less scary for children and reassuring for their parents," she says.
By turning an unfamiliar experience into something they can see and participate in, children can feel more prepared in uncertain moments.
It makes the experience less scary and helps children feel involved every step of the way.
And once the procedure is over, the bear doesn’t disappear. For many children, it stays by their side throughout their hospital stay and beyond.
"That bear becomes their source of comfort, courage and companionship throughout their journey," she says.
"It's amazing how something so simple can make such a difference."
