Memory Bears: A Huggable Keepsake for Families

Journey Hospice provides compassionate hospice and palliative care with a focus on each patient’s integrity and dignity. From emotional support and holistic healing for patients to education and counseling for families, Journey provides comfort and peace of mind.

When a loved one passes away, Journey continues to provide support and counseling for the family. One example of such support is our renowned Memory Bear program. Beth Gebhart, Director of Community Relations & Volunteers, organizes a team of seamstresses that provide patients’ loved ones with a stuffed bear created from the patient’s personal items, such as blankets, shirts, ties, or jackets. The resulting keepsake serves as a visual and tangible memento that can be cherished for years to come.

While nothing can ever take the place of a loved one, a memory bear can bring comfort to the grieving families touched by hospice. Memory bears are crafted from articles of clothing of hospice patients who have passed and are sometimes adorned with sentimental mementos and accessories.

Are you interested in learning more about helping create these treasured keepsakes? Call Beth Gebhart, Director of Community Relations & Volunteers at (609) 760-6073 or email her by clicking here.

Volunteers do not have to live near a Journey Hospice location. We will ship clothing and accessories provided by the family to you and cover shipping expenses to return the completed memory bears.