Teddy Bears and Tubies

Over the weekend the Child Life Team turned a conference room at Carilion Children’s Tanglewood into the one of the tiniest and sweetest little clinics. The patients? Teddy bears, stuffed animals, and a few very loved creatures. Kids from across the community were invited to bring in their stuffy and take them through different hands-on stations. 

From the moment they walked in, kids jumped into their roles as doctors, nurses, and caregivers. They checked in their stuffies, listened closely for heartbeats, studied pretend X-rays, and wrapped up arms and legs, and even some tails, with casts and bandages. There was a lot of focus, a lot of giggles, and a whole lot of pride in taking such good care of their patients.

With over 60 children participating, the room felt full in the best way. Busy little footsteps, excited voices, and kids who were exploring the medical setting in a safe and fun way. Stuffed animals left with top-notch care and kids left with big smiles and a little extra confidence.

One moment from the day really stayed with us. Two kids met while caring for their stuffed animals and realized they had something in common. Both had G-tubes. Without any hesitation, they lifted their shirts to show each other their “tubies.” Their families connected right alongside them, sharing support in a way that just felt natural.

Days like this are a good reminder of the heart behind what the Child Life Team does. Play, learning, and connection all wrapped into one. Sometimes it might look like a room full of stuffed animals; sometimes it looks like two kids finding each other without even trying.

Thank you to the Child Life Team, Carilion Children’s Leadership, and all of the staff and countless volunteers who made the day so special. Special thanks to Macy Ware and Children’s Miracle Network for helping bring this day to life and to Scott Yates for capturing such wonderful moments.