Buderim Private Hospital will celebrate NAIDOC Week with a special gift for its maternity patients, thanks to a unique partnership with local craft group, Sunshine Linus.
More than 80 custom ‘Kanyini’ bears have been lovingly stitched together by Sunshine Linus and will be given to families in the hospital’s maternity ward throughout NAIDOC Week (4-11 July).
Kanyini bears are named after an Australian Indigenous word which is best expressed in English as the combination of two words, responsibility and love. Its principles are based on unconditional and unlimited love.
Ali McKill, Maternity Manager, said the Kanyini bears are being gratefully received by maternity patients because they have a wonderful synergy with new parents.
“Not only do the bears look amazing but I think what they represent really resonates with our patients – unconditional love and responsibility with no time limits is very much the journey new parents embark upon,” she said.
“We would like to provide our heartfelt thanks to Sunshine Linus for its generosity and creating such a special and meaningful gift for us to share during NADOC Week.”
Inspired by the colours of the Australian Aboriginal flag, the bears have been donated by Sunshine Linus whose mission is to provide quilts and other comforts to the Sunshine Coast community.
This year’s theme for NAIDOC Week – Heal Country! – calls for stronger measures to recognise, protect, and maintain all aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage.
As part of UnitingCare, Buderim Private Hospital’s vision for reconciliation is to be culturally responsible and committed to social justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples; and be unified, positive and healthy.
Pictured: Baby Maya receiving her first ever teddy in the maternity ward