Real Stories
Who is Katie Bear?
A treasured keepsake and a forever friend
Rumour has it that the design for Katie Bear was drawn by a young patient called Katie, encouraged by her grandfather. We’re proud to have Katie as our mascot, she’s been our icon since the charity started in 1988
Every child who has open heart surgery at the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit receives a Katie Bear teddy, certificate and medal. Katie becomes a treasured keepsake and part of a patient’s journey with congenital heart disease.
Your favourite bear is also available for hugs and photos at CHSF Events!
Stories
Read about the real life experiences of families we’ve supported and how your donations have made a difference
Family
October 12, 2026
Support for families: September 2026
Thank you so much for meeting us in clinic. we really appreciated the chat and the goodie bag. You calmed us all down” — hear…
Community Fundraising
October 9, 2026
Grandad Colin climbs a mountain for Ezme-Rae
Colin wanted to give back in thanks for the amazing support his son and family received whilst in hospital so chose to do som…
Corporate
October 8, 2026
Caddick Donates Another £10,000 to Children’s Heart Surgery Fund (CHSF)
Since the partnership with CHSF began, Caddick has donated a total of £183,620.
