by Daniel Duric, for the Newport Dispatch

NEWPORT — More than 200 kindergarten students from across Orleans County visited North Country Hospital on May 13 and 14 for the return of the hospital’s Teddy Bear Clinic, held for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Students from elementary schools in Lowell, Jay/Westfield, Brighton, Newport City, Newport Town, Barton/Glover, Irasburg, Orleans, Coventry and Derby brought stuffed animals to the hospital for a hands-on experience designed to help children feel comfortable in a healthcare setting.

In the emergency department, nurses helped “treat” the stuffed animals by weighing them, giving pretend shots and applying bandages. Students also toured the radiology department, where they learned about X-ray equipment, and had the chance to explore an ambulance and meet local EMS crews. The visit included a summer safety course.

The Teddy Bear Clinic has been a community tradition for more than 30 years. The program was originally started by Merrilyn Barry and Chris Beerworth.

“The return of the Teddy Bear Clinic was incredibly meaningful for both our staff and the students who attended,” said Kathy DiCarlo, who coordinated the event. “It was wonderful to once again see children laughing, learning and feeling comfortable inside the hospital environment.”