Dr. Kevin Beitchman and Beitchman Orthodontics donate teddy bears to pediatric patients
While this year marked Dr.Beitchman’s 11th annual “Spring for a Teddy Bear of Love Project,” it was the first time he brought his donations to University Health.
Dr. Beitchman said that his aim has been to bring joy and comfort to children during their hospital stay.
His family shares a deep connection to the cause, stemming from their own personal experience, when their son Joshua was born prematurely in 1991, weighing just 3 pounds. Joshua required special medical care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and underwent surgery at just five days old.
Unable to bring Joshua home for a month, Dr. Beitchman brought Linda’s childhood teddy bear “Brownie,” standing just three inches tall, and put it in the incubator next to Joshua.
“We know firsthand how tough it can be for families in the hospital,” Dr.Beitchman said. “We hope these teddy bears bring some comfort and smiles to the children and their families.”
He recalls the difficult times along with gratitude for the care Joshua received, which inspired their ongoing support for pediatric patients.
“Anyone can do something to make the world a better place,” Dr. Beitchman said. “By finding a cause or passion that resonates with them, it shouldn’t feel like work, it’s simply about wanting to help and give back.”
As the team left the hospital, the smiles on the children’s faces were a testament to the impact of their generosity.
The Beitchmans hope that their story and actions will inspire others to find their own ways to bring joy and comfort to those in need.