25 Jul 2026

By ~ Tan Jen Nie


Stitched with Love: The Bear of Hope Handover at MMCH


On the morning of July 25, 2026, the promise of warmth and comfort came full circle as the Inner Wheel Club (IWC) Pearl of the Orient, Penang made its heartfelt visit to Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital (MMCH).

The original Bear of Hope project was first initiated in 2023 by then-President Janet Chong. Inspired by how deeply successful and well-received that first effort was, Bear of Hope 2.0 was born as a seamless continuity of love, chosen as the signature Presidential Project of Dr. Janet Lim for presidential term 2025/2026. Together, IPP Dr. Janet Lim and Project Lead PP Janet Chong, alongside President Belinda Ong and fellow club members, arrived at the hospital bearing the fruits of fellowship and community care, greeted warmly upon arrival by MMCH Community Development Assistant Manager Ms. Patricia Yuen.

Delivering Beacons of Hope
Carrying with them the lovingly stitched bears crafted by the Teoh family in Melbourne, Australia, the very first set of the handmade bears was officially handed over to the hospital for distribution to patients. Fashioned with love and inspired by Australia’s trauma bears, these gentle companions are ready to bring solace to patients admitted to the hospital. In the midst of the challenging battle against cancer, each bear stands as a soft, comforting reminder to each patient that they are resilient, cherished, and never alone on their journey.

A Place of Rest: Donating Patient Benches
True to the project’s dual-impact mission, the club also officially handed over two outdoor seating benches funded through the proceeds of the Bear of Hope initiative. Placed within the hospital grounds, these sturdy new benches offer patients, caregivers, and visiting families a peaceful, comfortable space to rest, catch their breath, and find moments of quiet respite during trying days.

A Morning Wrapped in Love
The morning was enveloped in profound warmth and grace. Knowing that these handcrafted bears will serve as true beacons of hope brought smiles and full hearts to everyone present—hospital staff, visitors, and club members alike.

Through collective goodwill, IWC Pearl of the Orient, Penang has once again proven that when hands stitch with love, hearts are touched forever.