Local Optimist Clubs have stepped up when it comes to Pediatric Surgery at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital. As we know, for any parent, pediatric surgery can be an overwhelming experience, and for the child, it can be daunting. Recently, SMGH introduced the Pediatric Surgery ‘Bears that Care’ Program, aiming to achieve just that. This initiative provides each child with a book tailored to their upcoming surgery, along with a teddy bear equipped with a pediatric mask, both of which the child can keep as mementos upon leaving the hospital.
The response to the program’s trial phase was overwhelmingly positive, with pediatric patients bringing their teddy bears into the operating room and waking up to find them by their side. Stepping up to the plate were the District 7 Optimist Clubs with a generous donation to the SMGH Foundation of $3,500 from seven local branches, including the Komoka-Kilworth, Mt. Brydges, Strathroy-Caradoc, Dojo, Kerwood, Alvinston, and Watford.
Written by: C. Soares
