Teddy bears on parade

Among the items in Grandma's trunk was a small, tattered photo that didn't make it into the family album. It's out of focus, and light has leaked into the camera, but there's no mistaking those little ears. These days, he has a stiff hip and is feeling his age, but that's to be expected when you're over 90.

No, no, I don't mean Dad. I mean Teddy, Dad's bear.

A young Murray Fraser with his bear, Teddy

Spot looks dejected as Murray and Jessie hug their toys instead of him.

Teddy sports black cotton palms and soles, which are actually patches that Grandma added to carefully mend his worn paws. His joints and head used to swivel, but have been sewn in place. One hip joint awaits surgery, and he's lost a little sawdust.


Much-loved Teddy

And speaking of bears needing surgery, Teddy has company in his hospital ward. L'il Teddy Bear, my own bear, has survived some very drastic procedures in his 60 years. My sister Virginia honed her surgical skills on this little body, including several skin grafts, and the implant of a red button heart.

As if this wasn't enough to "bear," L'il Teddy Bear once required an entire face transplant. Imagine my childhood terror to find my little bear in Montagnons' yard, with only the back of his head and ears hanging from his limp body. The neighbour's dog literally ripped his face off and kicked the stuffing out of him. I rushed L'il Teddy Bear to Emergency, and it was a miracle that he survived.

Yes, Mom skillfully crafted a new head, complete with embroidered nose, new button eyes, and a felt tongue.

Dr. Fraser's first patient. Just look at those fine sutures!