September 12, 2006 > Kaiser Teddy Bear Clinic

by Pushpa Warrier

Kaiser Permanente invites the community to their fourth annual 'teddy bear clinic', which promises to 'make going to the doctor more bear-able'. Children are encouraged to bring their teddy bears, furry friends or dollies and enjoy dancing dogs, therapy pets, parade, games, bearaoke, snacks and prizes.

Teddies get a thorough physical examination, including eyes, ears, nose, chest and tummy exams. Injured teddies get surgery by licensed 'teddyologist surgeons' who put masks on teddies and take care of their injured parts. IVs are also administered to create a real hospital-like situation.

"The Teddy Bear Clinic is unique because it teaches children about the importance of medical care and helps them feel comfortable when visiting a doctor," said Colleen McKeown, Senior Vice President and Area Manager, Kaiser Permanente southern Alameda County.

This year, there are a number of novel attractions. There will be a 'bearaoke' for kids. An educational theater program for members of Kaiser Permanente is another interesting highlight to look forward to. Animal characters will provide entertainment. Tahitian dancers will perform. A high school music band will also perform.

The clinic features real doctors who diagnose teddy bear diseases, conduct X-rays and administer medicine. At the Teddy Bear Medical School, little kids can put on doctor's overcoats and go to Medical School where they will conduct examinations with toy stethoscopes and receive diplomas. Eyes can be checked with a specially made machine, much like the real ones, but smaller for little hands. After thorough diagnosis, teddy bears receive glasses and medicines to be given at home.

Teddy Bear Clinic is free and open to the public.

Fremont Medical Center
Date: Saturday, September 16, 2006
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: 39400 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont
Main courtyard, between the Niles and Hospital buildings

Hayward
Date: Saturday, September 30, 2006
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Sleepy Hollow Parking Lot
For more information, call 510-248-5250 or visit the web at Fremont.kp.org (click on community events