Fox Cities News

Pediatric patients at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah Emergency Department are receiving comfort from teddy bears. These stuffed animals are being given to young patients as a means to alleviate stress and anxiety during emergency visits.

Danielle Fischenich, a registered nurse at the medical center, stated, "We understand that emergency situations can create anxiety and worry, especially for a child. For many years, we have been exploring innovative ways and resources to provide a better experience for our pediatric patients. Something as simple as a teddy bear can help ease a child’s anxiety throughout their medical care."

The initiative, known as “Bedside Buddies,” continues an effort started by Ella Bast of Combined Locks. She began donating her birthday gifts to the emergency department after witnessing how giving her sister a small gift provided comfort during an emergency visit.

Fischenich added, "Gifting toys to better comfort our pediatric patients can often be a benefit to their care. The idea is to try to make a better experience for our younger patients and support a better association with health care in general. We hope something like the teddy bears can give children the opportunity to trust care teams for their health and well-being throughout their lifetime."

In collaboration with ThedaCare Family of Foundations and through Ella's continued efforts, funds have been dedicated to purchasing teddy bears for these young patients.

The ThedaCare Foundation-Neenah has supported this initiative by awarding grants funded by team member donations to purchase 200 initial teddy bears. Additionally, Neenah Foundation Board Members John F. and Tim M. Bergstrom have contributed personal donations towards the Bedside Buddy program.