Ruth Hasman, a retiree based in Vancouver, British Columbia, has made it her mission to mend a wide range of teddy bear mishaps, from pet-inflicted damage to missing limbs or excessive wear and tear. For nearly twenty years, Hasman has devoted her time to restoring old and worn-out stuffed animals from various parts of North America.
Her home is filled with stuffed toy parts, buttons, eyes, and fur, serving as a makeshift hospital for these beloved companions. Services at her “teddy bear hospital” include fur grafts, eyeball replacements, stuffing replenishments, and even spa treatments. Going the extra mile for her clients, Hasman often scours numerous thrift stores to find the perfect fabric match for each unique repair job.
Each teddy bear presents a new challenge for Hasman, who takes pride in the individual stories behind these cherished toys. She has even repaired a 115-year-old bear that has been treasured by five generations of a family. Hasman finds great joy in connecting with people and learning about the sentimental value attached to their beloved bears.
One of Hasman’s clients, Vedrana Petrovic, was amazed at the transformation of her plush golden retriever, Sylvester, which she had received from IKEA a decade ago. After visiting Hasman’s teddy bear hospital, Sylvester looked almost as good as new, bringing comfort and companionship to Petrovic during challenging times.
Hasman is currently training a successor in Maple Ridge, hoping to pass on her skills and expertise for the future. However, she remains committed to her craft, driven by the touching stories that accompany each bear she restores.