MSU Children’s Health Initiative Hosts Teddy Bear Picnic

9/9/09 Posted in News  |  0 Comments

With the last days of summer winding down, it is time to trade in swim fins and snorkels for backpacks and notebooks. The cooler weather inevitably brings the sniffles, sneezes and more visits to the pediatrician. For children with diabetes, asthma, cancer or other chronic illnesses, the doctor’s office becomes a second home. These children need a companion, like a soft and snuggly teddy bear, to give them the courage and hope to overcome their illnesses. The MSU Children’s Health Initiative and the MSU Department of Pediatrics & Human Development are teaming up to host the 5th annual Teddy Bear Picnic. The event will take place on September 26th at the 4H Children’s Garden on Michigan State University’s campus.

The Teddy Bear Picnic is a trip to the doctor for teddy bears. Children can take their stuffed friends to different pediatric departments for everything from a basic check-up to stitches. “We want to promote a good, healthy lifestyle,” said H. Dele Davies, MSUCHI Founder and Chair. “Not just physical, but mental…It’s a fun event for kids, while at the same time demystifying medicine as much as we can. The program is designed to educate children about taking care of themselves.” Each department will have their own section, such as dermatology, sports medicine, nursing and surgery. The goal is to make children feel better about going to the doctor. Also, parents can meet pediatric health care providers from a variety of specialties all in one place.

The MSU Children’s Health Initiative is a collaboration of university and community health care stakeholders dedicated to creating an integrated comprehensive child health care delivery system for mid-Michigan. “Mid-Michigan children deserve a comprehensive pediatric health care delivery system right here at home,” said Davies. “Making this dream a reality will require a true community partnership and a community wide solution.”

Tickets are $5 in advance and $7 at the door. The event includes lunch. Bring your children and their furry friends for a fun and educational day in the 4H Children’s Garden.

For more information visit www.msuchi.org