Something To Hold On To
Inspired by her own hospitalization, Abby developed the Something To Hold On To Organization in 2007, with the hope of delivering toys and stuffed animals to children who could use "something to hold on to."
One of our Something To Hold On To teddy bears, eventually delivered to cardiology patients in Children's Memorial Hospital.
"The bear you gave me was sitting right next to me when I woke up from surgery.
I felt terrible, but seeing that bear made me smile!"
-Bear Recipient Michelle, age 13.
Deliveries
June 2007: 70 teddy bears and stuffed animals to Children's Memorial Hospital's Oncology Day clinic, cardiology unit and child life center.
January 2008: 80 stuffed animals, dolls, and games to Children's Memorial Hospital's Oncology Day clinic
June 2008: 5 large boxes of toys to the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation
August 2010: 55 stuffed animals to the backstretch children of Arlington Park; specifically, to the "blue" group (ages 6 and 7) of the Kids on Track Program
The following poem, penned by Abby in 2007, is attached to every stuffed animal distributed to hospitalized children. A handmade "get well soon" card is also included.
Life will sometimes be rough,
And when you're in pain,
It just makes it tough!
I'm here to help out,
So if you're not feeling right,
You can let out your feelings
By hugging me tight.
I've been sent by a girl,
Who dealt with her pain,
By following her heart,
And using her brain.
A kid can accomplish,
As much as they hope,
As long as they don't
Sit around and mope.
But if you live strong,
Your pain, you'll get through,
With hope and faith,
Donations of NEW stuffed animals, toys or games are greatly appreciated. To iterate, all donations must be new due to the compromised immune systems of some of our recipients. Thank you for your help!