The picturesque Sunshine Coast Botanical Gardens played host to a heartwarming event on April 27: it hosted the first-ever Sunshine Coast Teddy Bear Hospital. Organized by local couple Sarah Dhillon – a lactation consultant – and Dr. Paul Dhillon, the event successfully raised more than $1,000 for the Halfmoon Bay Childcare Society.
Children brought their beloved teddy bears to undergo mock medical check-ups at five interactive stations, guided by a dedicated team of volunteers, including Dr. Dhillon, Laurel Silverman on X-Ray, Alison Dobbie and Danielle Bastien from public health, and Mary Findlay running oral health. More than 60 children attended the event from across the Sunshine Coast, along with their parents.
From treating pregnant pandas to performing “surgery” on Minnie Mouse for a hand trauma, and managing basic bear bumps and bruises, the volunteer medical team ensured every stuffed patient received top-notch care. The event’s goal was to demystify medical procedures and make healthcare more approachable for kids, thereby making hospital visits more “bearable.”
Thanks to the generous support of the community and the hard work of all involved, the Teddy Bear Hospital was a resounding success.
