Wilmington, DE – On Valentine’s Day, more than 200 stuffed animals were presented to the Endocrinology Department at Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), in conjunction with Build-A-Bear Workshop®, donated the furry friends in hopes of sharing hugs and putting a smile on the face of a child newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
“At Build-A-Bear Workshop, we believe in the philosophy of being good bears and good people giving back to the community,” said Debbie Whiteside, assistant workshop manager at Build-A-Bear Workshop at Christiana Mall. “We know that many of the children and families who visit our stores are impacted by juvenile diabetes. We are thrilled to partner with JDRF to make a difference in the lives of children.”
Four of the animals delivered were specially made by children with type 1 diabetes. “I know how scary it was for me when I was diagnosed in 2009,” said MacKenzie Pincura, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in November 2009 and stayed for two days at duPont Hospital for Children. MacKenzie named her bear “Hope” and delivered to Jenna Willmott, who is currently a patient being treated for type 1 diabetes at duPont Hospital for Children.
“I gave ‘Hope’ to Jenna on Valentine’s Day because I wanted to tell her that everything is going to be okay and to remind her to never give up hope for a cure,” said MacKenzie.
“Learning that your child has type 1 diabetes is overwhelming for the entire family, especially the child,” said Kimberly Shoe, MSN, Insulin Pump and Diabetes Technology Coordinator at duPont Hospital for Children. “I remember as a child how important a stuffed animal was that I received in the hospital during my diabetes diagnosis. These bears and bunnies will really help our patients gain the confidence they need, and teach them where to turn when support is required. We thank Build-A-Bear Workshop and JDRF for this generous donation to the Diabetes Department at duPont Hospital for Children.”
According to the JDRF, more than 15,000 children and 15,000 adults—approximately 80 people per day—are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in the United States. JDRF is dedicated to finding a cure for type 1 diabetes and removing the burdens and threats that the disease carries.
“JDRF is so grateful for the strong partnerships with both Build-A-Bear Workshop and duPont Hospital for Children,” said Amanda Foxman, JDRF Delaware Branch Manager. “This partnership will hopefully bring some sunshine to a child newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.”