Ruth Hasman, a retired seamstress in Vancouver, has spent nearly two decades repairing a variety of stuffed animals from different parts of North America. Her home is filled with stuffed toy parts, buttons, eyes, and fur as she runs a “hospital and spa” for these beloved toys.
Offering services like fur grafts, eye replacements, stuffing replenishments, and spa treatments, Hasman goes the extra mile for her clients, even scouring thrift stores for the perfect fabric. Each toy presents a unique challenge, and Hasman finds joy in learning the stories behind them, often sentimental tales shared by their owners.
One of her clients, Vedrana Petrovic, was amazed at the transformation of her plush golden retriever, Sylvester, who Hasman restored to almost new condition. Petrovic, who relied on Sylvester for emotional support during university, described him as being deflated and floppy before his visit to the teddy bear hospital.
Hasman’s dedication to her craft extends beyond just repairs; she is also training a successor in Maple Ridge with the hope that her legacy will continue even when she can no longer repair bears herself. But for now, she remains committed to fixing these cherished toys, driven by the heartfelt stories that accompany each one.
