Bear Buzz

We love seeing our Bummer Bears with their new families! Share your Bummer Bear story and picture and we'll post it here.

And if you'd like your picture and story to be included on the Bummer Bears' Facebook page, you can let us know when you share your story!

• Baby I and Stitches the Bear!

  Posted on October 17 2021

  The day our second child was born was a flood of emotions. Not only did we have a surprise Down Syndrome diagnosis, we learned about his Complete AV Canal heart defect. 

  We were told originally he would need surgery between 3-6 months of life…then 9-12 months…then before 2 years old. His heart would never be able to repair itself, but he was doing well enough to postpone surgery until he was older and stronger. 

  He is now 14 months old and just had his open heart surgery. We were anxious in the months leading up to this, but the moment he went back to the OR, we felt utter relief. Relief that it was finally happening. And relief that his heart was going to be fixed. 

  On the third day of post-op we felt he was finally getting his personality and smiles back. The moment we took out his Bummer Bear, named Stitches, he was instant smiles! I feel like this Bear made his long days in the hospital so much more “Bear-able.” And someday he will hear the story of how he and his bear both have the same scar! 

• The Reason Behind the Cancer Cub...

  Posted on September 20 2021

  When we first bought this business the main reason was for our son and everyone out there with a Congenital Heart Defect. We thought one day we would try and bring some of the other bears back that were initially part of the business. 6 months after purchasing Bummer Bears my mom, my best friend, passed away of Cancer. I felt like my entire world was crashing down around me. She was one of those people that don't come around as often as they should. She was an angel here on Earth. She was the most patient, kind, loving, giving, compassionate human being. One of the things my mom always wanted was grandchildren. She was constantly asking when I was going to have kids. My husband had three girls' from a previous marriage. My parents knew we were dating but didn't think much of it until one day I said, "well you're going to be grandparents." My mom and dad looked at me and said they knew eventually one day they would act as grandparents to the three girls. I said, "yes, and to one more." I threw an ultrasound down on the table and I thought my mom might injure herself with how quick she jumped up! She was so thrilled. Seeing her face made it all worth it. She was always there for me. This bear is inspired after her and the countless others that are battling, have won, or know someone going through this immense struggle. I know this bear won't take away the pain, but maybe it can provide a little comfort and joy during those difficult days. 

  One thing I have learned about Cancer patients throughout my experience is that no matter what is thrown at them they never complain. They are always grateful and kind no matter what.

   

  

• Jayden's Mended Heart Bear Donation!

  Posted on September 16 2021

  Jayden is an absolute inspiration to everyone! He loves to give back to others and has donated Mended Heart Bears several years to the Yale New Haven Children's Hospital! You are amazing Jayden!

• Creed and his bear "Patch"

  Posted on September 25 2017

  Our hearts go out to Lindsey from Madison, MS, after receiving her Bummer Bear story this summer.

  My husband passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack- I was 29 weeks pregnant with twins. He had no known heart condition. I carried the twins almost full term and had a healthy boy&girl. At their 4 mo check up we found a murmur which was a VSD in my son Creed. He underwent open heart surgery last week at 5 mo old. We love our bummer bear "Patch." His heart is patched just like my Creed's!

  

• Daphne and her Bear

  Posted on September 25 2017

  Daphne from Glenpool shared her story with us and this great pic with her Mended Heart Bummer Bear (looking very spiffy with a neck bow!).

  While recovering from Open Heart Surgery this past Spring (2017) some sweet friends gave me the Mended Heart Bear.  What a precious and thoughtful gift. I will cherish it forever. 💔❤