Cambridgeshire Freemasons are proud to announce that over the past 22 years, they have donated more than 36,000 teddies to local hospitals as part of the ‘Teddies for Loving Care’ (TLC) appeal. These teddies have been distributed to children in A&E departments at Addenbrooke’s, Ely, Wisbech, and Doddington hospitals, offering comfort to children facing distressing medical situations.
The origins of this heartfelt appeal trace back to a personal experience when the wife of a Freemason was admitted to hospital due to a severe allergic reaction. While she was resuscitated and stabilised by medical staff, the terrifying experience led her family to reflect on how much more frightening such situations must be for young children.
The TLC appeal’s mission is simple but powerful: to provide soft, cuddly teddies to hospital staff for them to offer to children in A&E who are experiencing severe distress. These teddies not only serve as a source of comfort but also act as a tool for medical staff to build trust with young patients. Each child is allowed to take their teddy home as a keepsake, turning a traumatic experience into one with a positive memory.
The use of teddies has proven to be incredibly effective in alleviating fear and distress. The cuddly companions help calm children during difficult moments, acting as a reward for their bravery and a reassuring presence during treatments. Hospital staff have embraced the initiative, noting the positive impact the teddies have on both the children and their own ability to connect with young patients.
As a Masonic initiative, the TLC appeal exemplifies the core values of Freemasonry, particularly the commitment to charity and community service. While no public recognition is sought, the initiative has enhanced public understanding of Freemasonry’s contributions to society. The appeal has fostered a greater appreciation for the positive role Freemasons play in their local communities and their dedication to helping others.
The Freemasons of Cambridgeshire have embraced the TLC appeal with enthusiasm, with nearly all members and their families contributing in various ways, either financially or through practical involvement. The appeal has become a source of pride within the local Masonic community, providing them with a meaningful way to give back.
Recently Cambridgeshire Freemasons have extended the ethos of the scheme by providing teddies to Maggie’s cancer support, CUH Cancer Support Service and Young Lives vs Cancer, based at Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge, both of whom help families find the strength to face everything cancer throws at them.
Hayley Webb, Centre Fundraising Manager at Maggie’s, Lorna Krutke, Cancer Support Advisor at Addenbrookes, and Julie Charlesworth from Young Lives vs Cancer were on hand to take delivery of their first supply of teddies.
Lorna, Julie and I are extremely grateful for the generosity of Cambridgeshire Masons’ the teddies are a useful addition in helping us to provide support to families facing cancer.
— Hayley Webb, Centre Fundraising Manager at Maggie’s
Tony Barrios, who coordinates the scheme for Cambridgeshire Masons stated:
Teddies for Loving Care make a real difference to the lives of children in need, offering comfort during times of crisis while also providing a tangible example of the values Freemasons hold dear. Through this appeal, the Freemasons of Cambridgeshire continue to make a lasting and meaningful contribution to their local community.
