Teddy Bear Chief Quits Board of Vt. Hospital
The head of Vermont Teddy Bear Co. resigned from the board of Vermont’s largest hospital Wednesday after coming under fire from mental health activists for selling a “Crazy for You” bear in a straitjacket.
“The recent controversy surrounding one of my company’s teddy bears will detract from my ability to serve effectively, and I cannot allow this to occur,” Elisabeth Robert said in a statement issued by the hospital, Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington.
The $69.95 “Crazy for You” bear, which comes with its own commitment papers, was designed as a Valentine’s Day gift, but was branded insensitive by Gov. Jim Douglas and advocates for the mentally ill.
Last month, Robert apologized to anyone offended by the bear, but said it would not be taken off the market.
The company sold out of the bears last week and said it did not plan to manufacture more.
Dr. Melinda L. Estes, the hospital’s chief executive, had no comment on Robert’s resignation.
But last month Estes said the hospital did not condone “any action that is demeaning to our patients, makes light of their suffering, or perpetuates the stigma of mental illness.”
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