DT News interview: Cpl Meunier-Riendeau on Operation TEDDY BEAR.
Video / November 15, 2021
Transcript
(S) Operation TEDDY BEAR was recently launched by members of Joint Task Force IMPACT to bring joy and happiness to sick kids in regional hospitals across Kuwait and Jordan.
The Canadian Armed Forces are currently deployed to these areas as part of Operation IMPACT and today we’re joined by Corporal Samuel Meunier-Riendeau to give us some background on this compassionate operation within an operation.
Could you quickly recap why CAF members are deployed on Operation IMPACT?
(SMR) Yes, so Operation IMPACT is an operation that is taking place in several Middle Eastern countries, namely Iraq, Jordan, and Lebanon. The goal of this mission is to support local security forces and bring stability to the region. For example, we can offer training and participate in exercises. There is a wide range of activities that happen.
(S) What inspired Operation TEDDY BEAR?
(SMR) Operation TEDDY BEAR was an idea brought up by the Canadian Military Police deployed in Kuwait. The idea was that we give stuffed animals to all the sick children in hospitals. When the MPs came forward and asked if we could do something similar in Jordan, we certainly wanted to try and replicate the project there. We thought that it was a great idea, and there you have it.
(S) And how did you acquire that many teddy bears?
(SMR) I know that all the stuffed animals were gathered thanks to the Boomer’s Legacy fund. It was used to purchase all the stuffed animals and send us to Jordan.
(S) How was this initiative received by the Jordanian people?
(SMR) Oh really well. We went to a military hospital and met with a Jordanian General who was a pediatrician, so a doctor for children, and he and his staff happily welcomed us. The children and parents were really happy to see us. That was a memorable moment for sure, and we are excited to be able to repeat it. In four days, we will head to another hospital in Jordan.
(S) Thanks so much for joining us today and sharing your thoughts regarding such a meaningful cause.
A reminder that donations can be made to Boomer’s Legacy Fund at the related link.