How a simple teddy is bringing reassurance, strength and smiles to families during hospital transfers.

Every year, hundreds of sick and premature babies across the East Midlands face hospital transfers for specialist care. Thanks to your generosity, these tiny patients never travel alone – they have Miles the teddy bear by their side.

The CenTre Neonatal Transport Service carries out around 1,539 transfers every year, moving babies between hospitals for intensive care or returning them closer to home. Each baby receives their very own Miles bear on their first journey – a small companion that makes a big difference.

Thanks to your ongoing support, another 2,500 bears are ready to hop onboard for the special journey. More than just a keepsake, these little bears bring comfort, reassurance, and a sense of calm to families during what can be an anxious and emotional time.

For Elijah, born in January 2020, Miles quickly became more than just a bear. His mum remembers seeing the tiny bear placed in his incubator during transfer, and how it has been part of Elijah’s life ever since.

Now four years old, Elijah lovingly calls him “Baby Bear.” From hospital appointments to holidays, food shopping, and even birthday parties, Baby Bear is always by his side. Elijah, who has autism, finds deep comfort in the bear’s familiar presence. When he feels upset or overwhelmed, holding Baby Bear close helps him find calm. Elijah’s bear remains his closest companion – now carefully carried in a backpack to keep him safe.

His mum told us, “The Miles bear is not just a bear, keepsake or reminder for us, he’s part of the family. There’s not a time you will see Elijah and not see Baby Bear nearby.”

Julie Needham, Matron on the CenTre Neonatal Transport Team, added, “On behalf of the team at CenTre and the families we support, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who generously donated to fund our beloved Miles bear. His presence brings so much comfort and joy to the babies and their families during what can be an incredibly stressful and emotional time. Miles is loved by everyone. Your contributions have made a real difference, and we are so grateful for the love and kindness you’ve helped us share.”

Stories like Elijah’s show that something as simple as a teddy bear can bring lasting comfort – sometimes for many years to come.

Thank you for helping us provide families with strength, reassurance, and a very special travelling companion.