KU Wichita Pediatrics kicked off its B.E.A.R.S. 4Kids program Friday, March 6, at The Hudson with around 80 people attending the program and live auction.

An update on the Bears Enabling Advances in Research and Support for Kids program was presented by Brian Pate, M.D., chair of the KU Wichita Pediatrics department. Research updates were given by Cari Schmidt, Ph.D., research division director, and director of the Center for Research for Infant Birth and Survival; and Kerri Weeks, M.D., associate professor and director of the child abuse and neglect division.

The inaugural bear, Guthrie, is named after Drs. Richard and Diana Guthrie. Richard Guthrie, who also addressed the audience, was the first chair of the KU Wichita Pediatrics department in 1973. During his tenure, the Guthries inspired kindness and quality in children's health care. He is known worldwide for groundbreaking pediatric diabetes research.

Four baskets were auctioned by JJ Hayes from KFDI FM 101.3 and raised $1,350. Baskets contained memorabilia and autographed bears, one each by Richard Guthrie, KU basketball coach Bill Self, KU football coach Les Miles and Kansas City Chiefs player Blake Bell.

A special video message from Jeff Long, Kansas Jayhawks director of athletics, was shared with attendees. More than 100 bears were sponsored during the evening.

How you can help

Anyone can participate in the B.E.A.R.S. 4Kids program by sponsoring a teddy bear, which will be given to comfort a sick child at Wesley Children's Hospital, or by purchasing a bear to keep. At the same time, proceeds from the bears will support research in various areas, including continuing to help more Kansas babies make it to their first birthday, increasing the ability of our state to treat kids with mental health problems and making health care for children safer and more effective.