One of my favorite events I’ve ever been hired to photograph was hands down the Teddy Bear Clinic! Kids from all across the Twin Cities metro area were invited to Hennepin Healthcare’s downtown Minneapolis location for an opportunity to bring their stuffed animals in for a “check up” and learn about different types of medical care. The event aims at getting kids familiar with ambulances, doctors, nurses, and all the tools they use, so that it won’t feel scary if the child needs emergency help in the future.

The kids rotated through different stations and got to:

• Stitch loose seams on their stuffed animals
• Listen to teddy’s heartbeat
• Splint broken limbs
• Go inside a real ambulance & fire truck
• Get “teddy” x-rays
• Learn CPR skills
• Practice teeth brushing & handwashing skills
• Visit safety stations
• Free bicycle helmet & fitting
• And a lot more!!

It was seriously adorable!! Definitely going to bring my son to this again next year

This event reminded me how I got my start as a photographer (taking pictures for YMCA conferences and events) and how much of a love I have documenting moments like this all while supporting organizations & missions that help others