They catch speeders and stop crime, but Tuesday, State Troopers stopped by Children’s Hospital to spread holiday cheer.
Red wagons replaced blue lights and well-wishes replaced written tickets.
“I felt important because the last time I came here, I didn't get a bear,” said 14-year-old patient Alivia Stuhr.
25 years ago, the State Troopers Association of Nebraska started raising money to raise kid’s spirits, giving away warm, plush teddy bears for patients to cuddle during the cold, December nights.
Showing their soft side, @NEStatePatrol getting ready to hand out teddy bears to patients at @ChildrensOmaha. pic.twitter.com/KfHS5WCfqQ
— Deborah Tuff - (@DeborahTuff) December 1, 2015
“Alivia’s had issues with passing out and has to be transported and we've had a few times where we needed first responders and the troopers have showed up so this is very special,” said Alivia’s mom, Shelly Stuhr.
This is Trooper James Estwick’s fifth year, handing out the bears.
“It’s kind of bittersweet because the babies are in the hospital, they're sick, they're here and if we can brighten their day a little bit that helps us out a lot,” said Estwick.
There were nearly 100 bears given to bring smiles to the children’s faces. The association also helps patients year-round with the Wishing Well Foundation.
