Seton’s Teddy Bear Clinic returns Sunday

On Sunday, September 30, 2007, Seton Coastside in Moss Beach will host its 20th Annual Teddy Bear Clinic from 11 am – 3 pm.  Every year for the past 20 years, Seton Coastside has provided this worthwhile event, introducing children, ages 2-12, to the emergency department and hospital setting, in a fun "pain-free" way. 

What’s new at Teddy Bear Clinic this year? There will be complimentary pictures with "Big Bear" and a Teddy Bear for every 20th patient.

To help create this positive experience, the children are encouraged to bring in their favorite toy stuffed animal as the "patient". The child and his or her toy then go through the entire process of the emergency visit in a non-threatening atmosphere.  First, they make an appointment, apply for "Teddy-Cal" insurance, and then have their toys’ vital signs taken along with the "patient’s" history.  From there, the children are directed to the radiology department (a copy machine), where an "x-ray" is taken, and onto the lab where a "blood sample" is taken. 

Then it’s on to the waiting room.  Of course at the Teddy Bear Clinic, there is hardly ever any waiting time. The doctor, upon examination of the "patient", orders appropriate treatments like a cast, a shot, or possibly surgery and consults with the child and their stuffed animal.  Apples are given (an apple a day keeps the doctor away) and then everyone gets a nutritional consultation followed by a visit to the Physical Therapy department.

There are lots of activities outdoors as well, informing the children and their families about the support services provided in the surrounding community.  These booths, manned by volunteers from all over the Coastside, fill the parking lot.  The Pillar Point Harbor Patrol, the Sheriff’s Search and Rescue and the California Fire District are on-hand to give demonstrations of their life-saving equipment and techniques. Smokey Bear will also make an appearance.  If Life Flight is available, they make a stop to give the kids a tour of the helicopter.  Sonrisas Dental Clinic will be on hand to provide dental care information and proper tooth brushing techniques. The Children’s Health Initiative provides information and assistance on obtaining medical insurance for kids. Seton Medical Center’s Dietary staff and The Knights of Columbus cook turkey hot dogs, and serve fruit, pretzels, juice and water.

For many volunteers, it is an annual event. "We are so fortunate to have 100 staff and community volunteers that can hardly wait to volunteer each year," says Cheryl Sinclair, Manager of Community Outreach and Business Development. "Dr. Ted E. Bear, also known as Larry Looby, one of Seton Coastside’s Chaplains, will be working in the Emergency Department, once again this year". Seton Coastside is the only 24-hour Physician staffed Standby Emergency Department for a span of 70 miles on the San Mateo coast. 

If you have any questions or you want to sign up as a volunteer, please contact Cheryl Sinclair, Manager of Community Outreach and Business Development at 650-563-7121 or [email protected]