Putting smiles on children’s faces is Lyn Mackenzie’s forte.
The Waterford West resident has for the last five years spent hundreds of hours knitting teddy bears for children who experience trauma.
Whether it’s children fleeing bushfires or floods, those involved in a crash, or kids being rushed to hospital in an ambulance, these handmade teddies are gifts of comfort in a crisis.
“Imagine you’re a child and you’re driving along a country road with mum and dad and then bang – there’s been a crash,” Ms Mackenzie said.
“Everyone is in shock, people are screaming, police are trying to get statements… it’s a lot for a young person to go through.
“Emergency services give these kids a teddy and straight away they cuddle them, bury their faces in them or feel the texture of the wool with their hands which helps to calm them down.”
Each bear, which takes up to two days to make, is donated a hospitals or charity, or to the police, ambulance and fire services.
Ms Mackenzie said the bears created a “happy face during a sad time” – for people of all ages.
“The kids get such a jazz out of it, but you give one to an adult and it still helps – even grown men love them,” she said.
“I don’t always see the direct impact they make but on the odd occasion where I have seen what these teddies do for others – it’s just fantastic – it really makes me smile.
“There are a lot of trauma teddies out there but as long as there is still a need for them, they won’t stop going out and I won’t give up.
“My philosophy has always been if I can do something that will benefit others, whether it be very vulnerable people or young kids, I will do it.”
She said the bears help create emotional stability, and reduce stress and anxiety for children.
Every child gets to keep their bear and take it home.
Ms Mackenzie started knitting the bears after joining a craft group that also sewed clothing for returning soldiers.
“I told the ladies I wasn’t a knitter so I would just do the stitching for the teddies instead,” she said.
“The demand just grew and grew so now I do more knitting than most people would in their life.”
Those interested in volunteering to assist with the production of trauma teddies or would like to make a donation, please email info@seasons.com.au.
