Hi, my name is Alexa, and I want to let you know that you are not alone! You see, when I was young, I was diagnosed with a hole in my heart and Crohn's disease in the same hospital visit! I also want you to know that people care about you. This stuffed animal wouldn't be here if people didn't. Now, this stuffed animal will help you out a lot, just like stuffed animals helped me out when I was in the hospital. Here is what you do: You tell your stuffed animal all of your worries, and guess what?! He/she will help cure your worries with a quick hug. Don't forget to name your stuffed animal as well, and give him/her a nice, loving home. Now all you have to do is remember that people really do care about you, and that you are very, very special.



An extra note for teens- Don't let yourself believe that this “Kid stuff” is too far beneath you. I was still impacted by a stuffed animal during my last hospital stay, and I was (and still am) a teen! Even if you don't follow all of the suggestions above, your gift will help shape your story... In a good way, of course!