Carter’s Bear Club was started by Sharon Likos after seeing how much teddy bears comforted her grandson, Carter,  in the hospital. Carter was born with spina bifida and has had multiple surgeries and has spent many, many nights in the hospital. During one of his stays Sharon made a special bear for him with a hospital gown to make him feel more comfortable. After seeing how happy this special bear made Carter, Sharon was inspired to help other children and their families deal with this scary time. Children are given the bear and a membership card to this special bear club prior to surgery. The membership club lets families know that they have support. Our bear club members now reach around the world.

Hospital staff members continue to comment on how valuable this unique coping tool is to families. In many instances, the bear is the only one who is allowed to accompany the child past ‘no parent’ zones. It is our hope that our bears comfort each child and their family during this extremely stressful time.

Currently our base of operation is Phoenix, AZ and we are most involved with St. Joseph’s Hospital and Children’s Rehabilitative Services. We have had several articles published about our program. You can read some of those below. We rely on family and friends to donate bears and fabric for gowns. If you would like to get involved you can click the donate a bear button or email us for more information.