Greenwich Hospital’s Teddy Bear Clinic Treats Hundreds of Dolls and Stuffed Animals

They came by the hundreds – Winnie the Pooh, Buzz Lightyear, plush snakes, baby dolls and more – to be treated by the doctors and nurses at Greenwich Hospital’s 21st Teddy Bear Clinic on Oct. 6.

An estimated 1,375 youngsters and parents from Fairfield and Westchester counties took part in the outdoor mini-hospital under tents. More than 550 children from infants to pre-teens attended the free event.

“The Teddy Bear Clinic has become a tradition for many families. It’s a terrific way for children to learn about hospital services in a child-friendly environment,” said Norman Roth, Greenwich Hospital president and chief executive officer.

Twenty-one 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 brought their furry friends to various stations for X-rays, ultrasound, surgery, respiratory therapy, splints or stitches, depending on the diagnosis.

Also represented at the Teddy Bear Clinic were Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital Pediatric Specialty Center and Northeast Medical Group Pediatrics in Rye Brook, NY. Greenwich Library was on hand for story time and Greenwich Emergency Medical Services provided ambulance tours.