TALLAHASSEE, Fl. (WTXL) -- The Leon County Sheriff's Office went to two area hospitals Thursday and Friday to give young patients two special gifts.
It was part of the annual teddy bear drive that LSCO has organized for more than a decade. Each child is given a quilt and a teddy bear that not only keep them warm this holiday season, but will help keep them smiling.
"We just enjoy interacting with the children and it's just an opportunity to give back during the season and we just appreciate TMH for allowing us to be here," said Leon County Sheriff Mike Wood.
The Sheriff's Office adds that something like this can make a huge difference for children in the hospital. One deputy at the event says he understands that difference from personal experience.
"Over the course of the last couple of months, I've been up here. My daughter was up here for several days and you realize the impact of someone that comes in your room with a smile on their face. And, it really means a lot to the families," said Lt. Grady Jordan of LCSO.
Deputies visited both Tallahassee Memorial and Capital Regional Medical Center.
"It feels really good. It feels good because I know they have so much other work they need to be doing and they're so busy all the time", said Sara Blake, mother of a patient at the hospital. "And for them to take time out of their day to come by and see the children. It really lifts the children's spirits."
Blake's daughter did not want to go on camera, but her mom was willing to share her reaction.
"She still really, really enjoyed it", said Blake. "And I know when we get home and she's back to her normal state, she's going to look back and be really appreciative that they came by."
