A big-hearted care home resident has donated her lifelong collection of teddy bears to a charity that provides specialist nursing care for children with life-limiting or terminal illnesses.
Hazel Wooldridge, who lives at Colten Care’s Wellington Grange in Chichester, decided to act after a presentation at the home by the Sussex Snowdrop Trust.
Her move inspired others at Wellington Grange, including staff members, to gather and donate some of their own soft toys too.
The whole gift amounted to more than 70 bears and soft toys of differing sizes, characters and colours.
Hazel said: “I’ve collected teddy bears all my life, and they’ve always brought me comfort. When I heard about the children Snowdrop supports, I knew I wanted my bears to go to children who might need a bit of comfort and love during a very difficult time.”
The bears and toys were handed over to Daina Levantine, Co-Founder and Chair of the 32-year-old Trust, who was on a visit to speak to residents about its work.
Daina said: “What Hazel and the team at Wellington Grange have done is incredibly special. These acts of kindness mean more than words can say to the children and families we support. It’s truly heart-warming to see such generosity and compassion, and I’m so grateful for the love shown to Snowdrop.”
Lana Harmon, Companionship Team Leader at Wellington Grange, said: “When Hazel came up with her idea of donating her teddies it touched so many hearts among our staff. Hazel had lovingly kept and treasured each of her teddies over the years, so we knew how much they meant to her. Her decision to gift them to the charity prompted a wider outpouring of kindness, with everyone wanting to be involved.”
Lana added: “We thank Daina once again for coming to see us and sharing some of the powerful and life-changing stories of the children and families helped by the Trust. Its work has left a lasting impression on both residents and staff here.”
