College of Human Medicine continues building healthier communities with the Teddy Bear Health Fair

June 13, 2025

Stuffed animals of all (bear) shapes and sizes were spotted at Michigan State University’s East Lansing campus on Saturday, May 30, for the 19th annual College of Human Medicine Teddy Bear Health Fair.

The event welcomed nearly 800 attendees, offering 29 booths hosted by community partners, each with something fun for families to enjoy.

“The many booths were exciting, interesting, and educational. All ages learned something!” said a participant. “The goodies and freebies at this event are so great and it's just such a good opportunity for kids to get more comfortable with doctors and nurses, and for parents to learn about resources in the community.”

Stations at the event included the Teddy Bear Hospital, complete with an x-ray machine, multiple health check-up areas where kids could learn learn about bandaging their bears and the importance of shots, and a hands-on Big Bear CPR demonstration that delighted and informed. 

Dean Aron Sousa’s wife’s teddy bear even made an appearance! It wrote a riveting event recap for the Dean’s Update. “As I understand it, a major purpose of the event is to help children feel comfortable with medical care by requiring their stuffed animals to act as role models” said Hope Bear. “In this regard, my brethren performed admirably, quietly and patiently allowing the medical students and physicians present to listen to their nonexistent hearts, check their ears for bedbugs, and tap their joints to confirm there are no reflexes in stuffed animals.”

Spartan spirit was felt throughout the event as families interacted with MSU favorites like the Pompon squad, Zeke the Wonderdog and Sparty. Kids were able to tour an ambulance, get their faces painted, and explore other fun ways to stay healthy. The mix of entertainment and education made for an unforgettable day for families from across the community.

Melissa Veneklase, the college’s Events Manager, said vendors and volunteers new to the event this year are eager to make a repeat appearance next year. 

View photos from the East Lansing 
Teddy Bear Health Fair

This event was made possible thanks to our generous sponsors: MSU Federal Credit Union, WKAR, University of Michigan Health-Sparrow, MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine Department of Pediatrics, MSU Health Care, Neuro Care Network, Ivy Rehab for Kids and Pediatric Dentistry.