Barbara’s Friends, Golisano Children’s Hospital cancer fund, is proud to announce the establishment of the Barbara’s Friends Teddy Bear Endowment Fund. Generously endowed with a gift of $150,000 from philanthropist Barry Lukatch, this initiative provides an ongoing opportunity for the community to show their support for children battling cancer and blood disorders.
The Teddy Bear Fund will provide all newly diagnosed and active hematology and oncology patients at Golisano Children’s Hospital with a teddy bear or stuffed animal within their first year of diagnosis. These comforting companions will serve as a therapeutic tool to reduce stress, alleviate anxiety and foster communication between young patients, their families and the medical team.
“This project reflects the heart of Barbara’s Friends – helping children and families find hope and strength during challenging times,” said Amy Frith, senior director of Barbara’s Friends Pediatric Cancer Fund. “Thanks to Barry’s generosity, every child who faces a cancer or blood disorder diagnosis will have a furry friend to support them through their journey. We encourage others in the community to contribute to this fund and expand its impact.”
The Child Life team at Golisano Children’s Hospital will present the teddy bears or stuffed animals at carefully chosen moments tailored to each child’s emotional and medical needs. The initiative also considers the family, with the option to gift bears to siblings to help them navigate their loved one’s diagnosis and treatment. Each teddy bear or stuffed animal will include a personalized certificate featuring an inspiring message and space for the child to name their new friend, creating a personal and unique connection.
“I just wanted to do something that would directly support the children,” said Lukatch of North Fort Myers. “These stuffed animals will bring comfort and companionship to each kid. I get a glow from the bottom of my heart seeing the impact these stuffed animals will have for years to come.”
In addition to the endowment, community members can contribute directly to this initiative by gifting a bear for $50, ensuring even more children receive the comfort and support they need.
Barbara’s Friends has been a beacon of hope for more than 12,000 children with cancer and blood disorders over the past 30 years. To learn more about the Barbara’s Friends Teddy Bear Endowment Fund or to make a gift, visit BarbarasFriends.org or call 239-343-6950.
About Barbara’s Friends – Helping Kids with Cancer at Golisano Children’s Hospital
Established in 1995, Barbara’s Friends provides equipment, staffing and services to support lifesaving cancer care for children from across Southwest Florida at Golisano Children’s Hospital. The Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Program is the only program of its kind in Southwest Florida and has served over 12,000 patients since opening. No child is denied treatment or turned away as a result of their family’s inability to pay for care. For more information about Barbara’s Friends fund and supporting child patients in your community, please call Lee Health Foundation at (239) 343-6950 or visit BarbarasFriends.org.
