‘Definitely Part of What Makes Thompson Health Special’
After Thompson Bear emerged from his abode deep within the F.F. Thompson Hospital recently, donning a cap and gown to surprise the health system’s 2020 high school graduates, it sparked a discussion about his origins among a small group of staff members.
How long has he been Thompson’s mascot, they wondered? Furthermore, why a bear?
The gentle giant has been a staple of Thompson for so long that many staff and community members take him for granted.
According to an old Annual Report, the 6-foot mascot arrived at Thompson in 1994. Soon, he was a full-fledged ambassador for the health system’s message of community health and wellness. In addition to making appearances at community events, this meant leading tours of both the hospital and M.M. Ewing Continuing Care Center.
Linda Farchione Hawks, former president and CEO of Thompson, said the bear was the brainchild of the late Sharon Pepper, Thompson’s longtime Senior Living administrator. The idea emerged from an open forum with staff members in the fall of 1992, during which there was discussion of the need for a mascot.
According to Farchione Hawks, a local drug store had a sale on stuffed bears, so the administration decided to purchase one for every department. They attached a poem written by Farchione Hawks’ young daughter to the wrist of each bear.
While it’s hard to say what all went into the discussion, bears are known for qualities including strength and wisdom. In addition, in Native American cultures, they are often associated with healing and medicine as well.
As wildlife guide, naturalist and author Ellie Lamb put it on Bearsmart.com, “Bears are beautiful, sentient beings who are extremely large in personality, polite, and even empathetic. They also have a keen sense of community, and are not as solo and independent as people have suggested they are. They are peaceful, thoughtful, emotionally intelligent animals who truly love their kids. They are trustworthy, and that is especially true of a mother and her cubs. They have a jolly sense of humour, curiosity and compassion.”
Over the years, Thompson Bear has been a part of everything from capital campaigns to the outdoor and indoor fitness trails on the main campus. More than a quarter century after his debut, he remains a popular figure according to Angela Smith of Associate Services at Thompson.
Smith has been the mascot’s “handler” for six years and said he brings a smile to all ages. Kids at Canandaigua’s annual Memorial Day parade even chase after him for a high five or a hug, and one family on the route has told Smith they have a tradition – dating back many years – of getting a photo with him. Smith said fifth-grade chorus members at the Thompson Health Guild’s annual Tree of Lights enjoy singing and dancing with Thompson Bear, giggling and posing for photos, while M.M. Ewing residents who attend the event are eager to receive a hug from what Smith refers to simply as “Thompson.”
“Everyone loves Thompson. He is definitely part of what makes Thompson Health special and I have yet to see anyone meet him without a smile,” she said.
“He’ll dance with you, give you a high five, hug you, tease you or exercise with you. He’s game for costumes and any special celebration. He likes a good party, and overall he’s a good friend to have around,” she added. “What’s not to love about a big cuddly teddy bear?”