Teddy Bears Warm Patients
In-Flight

Pediatric patients taken to Oahu for medical care on Hawaii Air Ambulance leave the airplanes with a "cuddly friend."

"You should see the kids brighten up when they see a bear," said Eric Niven, business development director with the air ambulance.

They are targeted for pediatric patients "from 30 days old up to 18 -- really anybody we think the teddy bear can bring some type of reassurance or comfort," he said.

Aaron Friel, Hawaii Air Ambulance chief flight nurse, said in a news release, "I wish the membership of the Assistance League of Hawaii could see the difference these teddy bears make "Flying can be a new experience for these pediatric patients who may already be stressed due to a medical condition.

"We wanted to do something extra to bring comfort to these little patients during flight and when we heard about the Teddy Bear Program, we thought they might help us accomplish that."

"Our goal...is to give comfort to children in traumatizing situations," . "Being able to cuddle a teddy bear seems to alleviate stress. Such a small thing as a little cuddly friend can make such a huge difference."

Story by Helen Altonn - Honolulu Star Bulletin