Helping kids feel brave
through play

Medi Pals is a small family project inspired by our own hospital experience.

Back in 2012, our middle child, Ethan, was diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome at age 8. During his hospital stays, the incredible Child Life team used dolls to explain things like IVs. It brought him comfort and made everything feel a little less scary, and that experience stuck with us.

In 2025, our youngest, Neo (age 12), came up with an idea: what if we made medical kits for teddy bears, so other kids could feel more prepared and less afraid too? He started designing miniature kits on his computer, and it quickly grew from there.

Now it's a full family effort, with Neo at the heart of it all. He leads the creative process, designing and continuously refining all 3D models based on real-world feedback. Tony (dad) brings those designs to life through 3D printing and manages production. Ella (older sister) contributes graphic art assets for the website and social media. Lisa (mom) sews the kits onto the bears, coordinates donations, and works directly with hospitals and clinics to make sure Medi Pals reach the kids who need them most. Ethan, now a young adult, continues to provide insight from his experience growing up with a chronic illness, ensuring the kits stay thoughtful and kid-friendly.

It's a family project with one simple goal: helping kids feel braver through play.