We are blessed to have a lot of churches, children and adults who send us toys and beanie babies so we can give them to our pediatric patients.  In the US, most children love little beanies and stuffed animals and grab them tight when they’re given to them. In Haiti, though, most little girls are scared of the beanies and cry when they see them, because they’re not used to such things.  Here’s how one beanie episode played out:

You want me to touch this?

No thanks, Doc.

Well, on second thought, Mom, maybe you can put it in your purse to take home.

Most of the boys accept beanies right away without fear, but when given a choice they usually prefer cars!  This little boy is quite happy with a beanie but he was already given a car on a previous visit. That’s probably why he’s smiling so much.