Change Location

"This bear hug is for my beautiful daughter. Since 2020 life has took us on a very traumatic journey from losing my Mum, her nan, to dealing with severe autistic burn out which led my daughter to multiple hospital admissions.

Sadly, on the last admission she developed sepsis & I was told the devastating news she may not survive. Thankfully she beat it but has been left physically disabled and unable to walk and enjoy the things she once loved.. like taking her plushies out for photoshoots.

I’d love to reignite her passion for photos again and I think a very special new little friend would really benefit her. I want to show her that although life is different right now we can still enjoy doing the things we love from the comfort of our own home. She has always adored her plushies and so have I.. they’re like my grandchildren so however gets adopted here would be extremely loved and cared for. "

"Recently my hamster passed away witch I got when my mental health got worse and he helped me through everything like my mum going in to hospital multiple times and really bad bullying xx "

"I’m a 24 year old mum of two, who just got told it is likely I have Ulcerative Colitis. I can’t help but feel angry that my whole life is about to change."

"I’ve just been signed off from work for my mental health and prescribed my old meds again after working for years to get it into a decent place. There’s a lot of stress and anxieties in my life at the moment and I feel like I’ve taken so many steps backwards. I just feel so tired."

"I’ve always been alone. Not the kind of loneliness that can be cured by time with friends, but the deep rooted feeling I have no one in my corner. I’m the eldest daughter, the reliable one, the strong one, the diligent employee. But birthdays and holidays come and go, and I always end up celebrating alone. Not because I want to, but because I’m never anyone’s priority. I try and tell myself that it is ok, but deep down I mourn the connections I’ve never had. I’m writing on the Bear Hug Wall in the hope that I’m not invisible to someone."

"I am feeling very lonely lately. I am in my sixties and live alone, and I really miss the days when I spent a lot of time with my daughter. She lives far away now and is very busy with her own life. On top of that, I’m dealing with a few health concerns that make it hard to sleep. The nights feel incredibly long and quiet, and I could really use a comforting companion to help keep me company."

"I have recently lost both my grandparents. They were my entire world and my heart is shattered into pieces. They used to buy me stuffies all through my life even until earlier this year. It would mean so much to me."

"I'm going through one of the most emotionally turbulent times of my whole life. I'm basically in limbo waiting for my granny and my elderly dog to pass away as they are both seriously ill. My heart is crushed because I can't imagine a life without both of them. All the stress has caused my autoimmune conditions to flare up and cause more stress with work and family, I need to have a hug and just cry."

"Hi friends, my partner just found out his mum has spino cerebellar ataxia, and that he might have it too. It’s a stressful situation with an even worse possibility if he has it too. As his partner I’m so heartbroken for him and just trying to be the best support I can. It’s tricky because I also feel anxious about it and I wish it wasn’t happening, just so cruel and unfair. I really love a bear hug, makes everything feel a tiny bit lighter for a moment, thanks for reading my story and so much love to everyone else out there. :) "

"It's been a hard year. I lost my Mum recently, and I'm still struggling to grieve. I'm now a single Mum after a rather messy relationship breakdown a year ago, and my little one is truly in that 'Terrible two' stage! It's just me and her, we have no other family and the loss of Mum hits harder because of that. I've not long overcame cancer, and I'm still dealing with the aftermath. But I am grateful, I have my beautiful little cherub to provide me plenty of cuddles!

I have a small meaningful plush collection, Mum got me one every year for my birthday, so me and little one play tea parties with those (along with a few from her vast collection, her favourite is her giraffe!)

Sometimes it's just nice to acknowledge the struggle in words but realise I am strong and can manage, as much as it may seem like I can't. Dark days aren't forever, rain is followed by a rainbow! I'll get there and hope we can have our own family one day."

"Today I lay in bed with a heavy heart, this year has been one of the hardest times of my entire 20 something years on this earth, sadly my dad recently passed away to cancer and since that day a part of me has been missing and I dont know when that feeling will ever go away or if it will ever go away. But just watching videos of people going to adopt one of these beautiful bears has given me so much comfort for a reason I cant even explain, maybe its because I know that some people find so much comfort in such a small thing and that is a part of what makes this world a good place behind all the bad things, I remember when I was young and when I was scared I used to collect all my teddy bears and pretend they were my friends( maybe I watched too much toy story lol). I hope that whoever receives a hug here it makes there heart feel a little less heavy knowing there's a stranger out there that cares enough."

"Everything just feels too much and a hug makes it feel better. I am going through police proceedings for abuse I faced, I work in a job that can sometimes trigger me, I’m recovering from a health procedure at the moment so also in financial strain and a hug would help."

"It's been an incredibly difficult few months for me. I had my living costs double overnight due a new bill introduced for my supported living. Then my grandparent got sick and after a few days days by her side, I lost her. Then my Support Worker and my Care Coordinator both left within weeks of each other. It's been really hard and every time I think I've got my head above water, something else happens."

"My family recently suffered a bereavement, meaning my mum is in our house alone. Myself and my siblings have moved out and she finds it difficult as now where there used to be a whole house full of family, pets and happiness - it is lonely. Her and my dad's wedding anniversary is coming up and this will feel particularly poignant. I think she would appreciate having a bear to keep her company when sleepless nights happen and know that it has been given a second chance too."

"I am being sent to deploy with the military. I’m going to miss my cats, my son, my friends and others I hold dear to me. There nothing kind where I am going and I’m worried I’ll loose the whimsy and magic that I’ve held on to.
It’s hard for a man in this profession to still have it at this age. I hope I don’t lose it.
I should be too old for stuffed animals but I’m always deeply moved by these stories. I hope they all find wonderful homes."

"I have just finished uni and don’t yet have a job lined up. I’m struggling to find something to do but I also don’t want to end up in a job that makes me unhappy.

Being back in a small village is a struggle as most of my friends have moved on and there aren’t many clubs and societies around so it is very lonely.

Uni wasn’t the most positive time for me and I didn’t end up liking my degree so I want to find something I’d enjoy but I’m unsure what that even would be.

I’d like to have a cuddly friend by my side to try and get through this period of my life."

"My friend lost her wonderful Mum to cancer a couple of years ago and she is only in her 20's. Losing a mum so young, I can't even imagine. My own mum recently went through breast cancer and miraculously beat it. My friend, despite her own tragic circumstances, gave me the support I needed in knowing how cancer treatments work, when I felt too lost and sad to understand them. Her mum also became an "internet mum" for me, she would listen to my ramblings and laugh at my wittiness. I lost my Dad when I was very young, so I understand on some level. My friend and her Dad always make sure I get a present at Christmas and on my birthday. It's like having a sister and a bonus "internet ' Dad. Genuinely after everything they went through, they still remain two of the most kind, unselfish people I know. If it's possible to sponsor them both for a little cuddle pal, then I hope this can be done. Thank you for listening and if you do sponsor them a bear hug, I am truly grateful!"

"Very stressed at the moment partner being made redundant worrying as not sure how we will cope financially no money for her birthday so going to be a pretty crap year and I can’t cover the bills."

"Both my parents have died in the past few years, which as an only child left me as -'head of the family'. It's not something i thought about until it happened.
I've found it a huge responsibility. Who do I now go to for advice, when others are now coming to me?
My husband, my right hand man in this new role, has suddenly had quite a significant stroke.
The pressure has mounted, and I could so do with a little someone to tell my thoughts and concerns to."

"I have terrible anxiety about leaving the house, I lost my partner last year and I've been alone and miserable since then, I'm also autistic and miss people a lot when they come and go."

"I finally gathered the courage to cut off my mum, after years of awful words and behaviour towards me, calling me all of the names under the sun this week finally helped me to make my decision, very hard week being called lots of awful things."

"My dad passed away suddenly a few months ago, and I am still really struggling. He and I were very close, and I watched as he passed in the hospital after going into cardiac arrest. I feel like I am drowning in grief and I feel like I’m bothering everyone in my life with my grief and sadness. It feels like it will never get better. I would love a furry friend to listen to me and to hold when the grief becomes too much."

"My girlfriend just broke up with me, after 3,5 years together. 2 weeks ago we were looking at engagement rings, and now I feel like my world is falling apart. I can't stop crying, and I'm not excited about anything anymore. This is the first time I put my feelings into words, and this feels weird. On top of everything my 90 year old grandmother got taken to the hospital yesterday, and everything is just too much. I would really appreciate some support."

"Maybe not as much as most, but I am struggling right now. Work is crazy busy, and whilst I can normally cope, its a lot at the moment. I work late and at weekends to keep up. On top of that my daughter, my little bestie, is off to university next week. She doesn't seem to notice how its affecting her old mom, and she has spent the last 2 weeks with her boyfriend whilst I mourn what we used to have. I am happy for her, but I am so sad. Her rejection cuts deep. 💔
As I said, not as tough as what many are going through, but it hurts all the same. Maybe a little friend would be able to mop up my tears. 😢"

"Last week has just turned into the worst of my life. My mum has been disabled for 20+ years and me and my dad care for her while both working and me having a family, she got diagnosed for Alzheimer’s due to her medications recently. I've received 2 very difficult and life-altering diagnoses and feel horrid all the time but here's the kicker, Dad had a breakdown due to stress of mum on Friday had a bleed on the brain. He's still in intensive care in a coma, they’ve tried twice to get him out and it’s not gone well. Friends are being great at the moment but i just don't know whats going to happen theres so many variance, i care think of all the options."

"I have had a difficult couple of years. My husband and I have been trying to have a baby and in January, right after Christmas, we had our second miscarriage. Christmas we were on cloud nine and this whole year has just felt like survival. Everyone around us seems to have gorgeous little babies and we feel empty."

"I just finished my dissertation for my masters degree and I constantly feel not good enough. I’ll never be a real writer. I’m not as good as other people. My thoughts spiral. I’m also autistic and taking care of my granny who has memory issues, but that’s all just part of my story!"

"Last year my only son was born in summer. He was our miracle ivf baby after many many years trying and 2 previous failed attempts at ivf. He went through a very traumatic birth where he suffered a very large and deep cut and will always have a scar. He may have a potential brain injury we won't find out until he is around 5 years old. Thankfully he is hitting all milestones etc but it's always in the back of our minds.

But basically Iv been trying to find a suitable teddy for him for his "forever teddy"

"Gosh, I'm not sure where to start that doesn't sound like a pity party, but here goes. 2020 was a bad year for many of us. It started for me with a family member taking their own life just before lockdown, I then caught COVID & thought I may follow them. While still recovering physically & mentally, my amazing Mum passed away suddenly & unexpectedly, she passed all alone. I struggle daily to deal with this & the guilt I feel is all consuming. My mental health has suffered & I often find myself in a very dark place. During this time my husband didn't care enough to provide any love or support, he made me feel invisible, unlovable, worthless & he left. After several decades of supporting him & single handedly raising our children, I feel abandoned, rejected & discarded.
I'm struggling to find my place & value in a world that does not value a stay at home Mum & homemaker after the children have grown & don't need her anymore.
If you've read this far, thank you, just being heard means so much."

"My dear partner died 2 and half years ago, we were together 32 years. No one talks about him anymore and everyone presumes I have moved on but I am still heartbroken. There is no one to cuddle at night, no one to make tea for, no one to tell about the funny thing I read online. We never had children and both of our families are dead so I find myself the sole memory keeper for us. So many years, so much shared and now there is just me to remember. It hurts and although I try to be ok the emptiness never leaves. I just want him back."

"i'm a fresh new adult going through an incredibly heavy and lonely time right now. i struggle deeply with social anxiety, major depressive episodes, and chronic pain, which makes it really hard to talk to anyone or make friends. for a long time, i took refuge in my childhood teddy bear's little arms. unfortunately, my little guy has gotten too small for me to snuggle. it's really hard for me to ask for help, but i truly believe that a few doses of snuggles a day from a bigger fluffy friend might help put a smile back on my face. ❤️‍🩹"

"My dad has disconnected/ rejected me. I don't know the correct term. I haven't spoken to him for a while it hurts. We did a lot for him over a number of years. I'd hoped I'd be there for him as long as I possibly could. However that was not to be the case. I'm doing my best to move on now and keep my chin up. It's life sometimes good sometimes not so. Thank you for this it's a very special idea."

"I’ve loved plushies since I was a little girl, always feeling connected to ones I found on the street, in corner shops, or even in normal stores where there are lots of the same one. I feel like they all have souls.

But lately I’ve been feeling really poorly. I’m currently on the way to getting a diagnosis for a serious condition, which has been incredibly difficult, especially while I’m dealing with the pressures of school.

I’ve also recently come out of a really difficult and distressing experience in a psychiatric ward, and I’m still struggling with severe mental-health problems that I don’t always feel are taken seriously at home. I keep forgetting that I do have friends who are there for me, because sometimes it just doesn’t feel like it.

I spend a lot of time in bed because I’m also chronically ill with hEDS, which for me means joint pain, subluxations and dislocations, fatigue, stomach problems, dizziness, pins and needles and all sorts of other difficult symptoms. I’m stuck with a brace that doesn’t really work, a crutch that can make things worse, and skin that’s very prone to injury.

I’ve been feeling so low while hiding so much of it from everyone. The stress of school, thinking about college, doctors’ appointments, my mental health, problems with substances and everything else can pile up until I shut down completely. I’m just tired of hurting and would really love something comforting to hold onto."

"Hi, I am autistic and have signed up to do a half marathon to raise money for the National Autistic Society. I have never done anything like this before and am quite scared about it, I would love a little friend to train with and help me get through the run, soft toys are my comfort items and I would love a special one for this. 🧸"

"Over the last few years I've navigated redundancies, work and financial difficulties, unemployment, bereavement, mental health difficulties, ADHD diagnosis, pet loss and more. I'm not able to adopt sadly as while I'm making a career change and getting new qualifications my salary just doesn't stretch that far."

"My son is turning 16 soon and is going through a tough time. He's been in hospital twice recently due to severe mental health and is due to be going back to school to start his final year with exams looming. He is feeling really overwhelmed and would love a special friend to help ground him and help him at this tough time."

"I’ve been going through a particularly difficult time recently, with several big and unexpected things happening in my life all at once. I’ve been struggling with my health and sleep, and I’ve recently lost my job, which has left me feeling even more overwhelmed and poorly and uncertain about what comes next.

At the same time, there have also been some really beautiful things happening in my life, including getting engaged to my partner, so I’m finding myself feeling a strange mixture of happiness, worry and exhaustion.
Not only this but ive had to do this alone at home as my lovely partner is away...

...I could use a bear hug right about now 🤎"

"I've recently started at a new college and I don't really know many people there. It's hard for me to make friends as I'm not a very outgoing person and I prefer keeping to myself, however that means that for most of the days I sit alone with nobody there to brighten my day."

"struggling with self esteem, loneliness, making friends in my 20s. feel like i’m always alone and i never have anyone to go to"

"Last week my doctor diagnosed me with a debilitating life-long condition; the very next day, someone I knew passed away from that same condition. Mine hasn't progressed to such a severe stage as theirs yet, but it's still a really scary diagnosis to navigate, especially as it's taken away so many things I've cared about, like being able to spend time in nature, visit my friends and family, and just breathe fresh air. I miss being able to watch the birds and find new cool bugs outside, take part in my hobbies, cook my own meals, et cetera. These days I'm not able to spend much time outside of my bed, due to my illness, so it would be wonderful to have a little friend to keep me company here."

"My fiancé early this year after a cancer diagnosis. We had five months to try and grasp that the person you build your life around won’t be there to live it with you. By May, his sibling was gone too in an accident. Losing them both within weeks felt like the floor had fallen away entirely. I’m in my early 30s. You don’t expect this volume of loss at this point in your life.

Since then, everything has become harder. I live with several long-term mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, and I’ve needed inpatient care for some time. It’s now been over a year. Some days feel like walking through treacle, moving so slowly that I can’t quite remember what moving freely felt like. I’m also due to have huge surgery in the next few months, which makes everything feel even heavier.

I have no family nearby to anchor me. These two people were my found family and what was left of my support network. Losing them has left a huge emptiness that I’m still trying to find my way around.

Hospital can be such an isolating place, especially when you’re already carrying this much grief. What has got me through some of the hardest stretches hasn’t been anything grand. It’s been the smaller things. A kind message. Something unexpected arriving. The weight of something soft to hold when everything feels like too much.

I absolutely adore teddies. There’s something about having a soft, squishy little friend beside you when you’re frightened or alone that makes the world feel slightly less cold. Having something soft to reach for on a difficult day can make a surprisingly big difference.

If anyone reading this felt able to send me a stuffie through the Bear Hug Wall, it would mean an enormous amount to me. Right now, I could really do with something soft to hold while I try to move through this next part.

Thank you for reading. ❤️"

"Hi, I’m an international student from Indonesia, and I’ve spent the past year doing my master’s here in Cambridge.

This has been my first time living abroad, and looking back, this year has truly been the most amazing chapter of my life.
I’ll be packing up and heading home at the end of September to start completely fresh, and the reality of leaving is hitting hard. These past few weeks have been a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. I’m excited for what’s next, but honestly, I’m also quite scared. My heart feels so heavy with sadness to leave this place behind, yet overflowing with gratitude for everything it has given me.

As I get ready to close this chapter and carry these memories home, I find myself wishing I could hold onto this place just a little bit tighter and hope to always remember the magic of UK when I am far away."

"My friend is a single mum really going through the wringer for her children, but often doing it alone with no support but endless scrutiny . She’s an amazing woman, saved me and my little ones at our darkest & I want her to have someone in her corner. She loves pandas, and needs something she can cuddle at her hardest"

"I'm only 19, but as a young person I've always struggled with my mental health. I won't go into details, but growing up I've always put other's needs and wants infront of my own and I've always been a real people pleaser, I would say. I've been through a lot, and as a sensitive person it can be very difficult for me to cope. Built up emotions that can make me snap at any given time. I've always loved rescuing plushies and having them as a comfort to me. They're a big part of my life. I'm doing a lot better than previous years, and I think the perfect thing for me right now, going forward into adulthood, would be adopting a loved before friend that I can cherish and love as a little companion that can always be there for a hug ❤️"

"My grandparents are currently going through a tough patch with their health and I feel so sad about it. They have always made me feel so loved and listened to me when others have spoken over me or not listened. They bought me my a teddy for my first Christmas that I still have now and sleep with, but he's getting quite worn so I'd love to have another friend I could hug at night that feels like I'm hugging my grandparents too. "

"I’ve just started a PhD and, if I’m honest, I’m finding the transition much more overwhelming than I expected. I’ve left behind a place where I spent several years, knew everyone and felt completely at home, and suddenly I’m surrounded by new people, unfamiliar places and lots of things I’m still trying to work out.

I’m excited about the PhD and know I’ll find my feet eventually, but at the moment I’m feeling quite lonely and unsettled, and putting a brave face on it is taking more energy than I expected. I know it will probably get easier with time, but right now I’m feeling quite rubbish and could really use a hug."

"I lost my mom to brain, breast and lung cancer this past vear, this next birthday will be my 1st birthday without her in my life. She was my biggest fan, my biqgest supporter, my biggest ally. Growing up with ADHD and Autism she never ever made me feel different, i didnt have a lot of friends. She was my best friend , She fought for me, stuck up for me and becoming someone I could talk to about anything and evervthing. Losing her also meant she also left with a piece of me. She loved my bears, she loved seeing photos of them and the adventures we went on, she laughed when I told her I started their own socials profile and would ask me so how many followers now? It became something we could both enjoy. I love vou mom, i miss you. Here's to the 1st birthday without you , but maybe many more with you in my heart ill always remember you. Until we meet again."

"i’m starting a work placement soon, and im really unsure of how i’ll handle such a big change with depression and ptsd. i’ve done everything i can to make myself feel comfortable, but a fluffy friend to come to work with me in my backpack and remind me that im not doing this alone would mean a lot to me <3

"I lost my dog. He was my soul. Two weeks before he came into my life I had miscarried our baby. I never healed from the miscarriage I just put all my life into caring for my boy (dog). He was severely underweight, malnourished, never been house trained, never even been in a house. He became my shadow and now, after ten years, hes gone. His final days haunt me and I miss him more than words can say. The overwhelming emotions of his loss and the miscarriage have all come back. He used to pick my tears away but now hes not here."

"I've recently become disabled and I'm struggling to get my head around it. I'm in my 30s and have always worked full time, been active, been able to visit friends. I feel like my life has turned upside down. I've been bedbound, then housebound and now am just starting to be able to do small trips out with a stick or a rollator. I lost my job, so many friends and who I thought I was. Housework gets on top of me and I feel like everything I've worked for has disappeared. I know I should be grateful that I have a life and I can still do some things, but I'm so scared, sad and lonely sometimes. I feel like I've been forgotten about. I'm trying to get used to my new normal but can't help comparing it to how I was before and I feel like a failure. Thank you for having a space to say how we feel because I feel like I can't say this out loud as I'm supposed to just 'get on with things' x"

"Life has really threw a few hard balls at me recently. I am married to the most wonderful man and have two great children, however my husband is unwell (currently receiving treatment) and is unable to work. I am having to manage work, caring for my husband and raising our two children all on my own. Plus I am having to look for a second job just to help cover our expenses. I understand people have it worse but I’ve always wanted to adopt a teddy from here. Just wish I could afford to do so, just so I could have something that’s just mine that I can cuddle when I need some support."

"Hi there
I had my first child in May 2026. I am so happy as a Mum. The delivery, postnatal period and up until now has been super stressful for me. I am AuDHD and want to meet other Mums so my baby can meet other babies, but I am anxious about getting myself ans my baby out, socialising and coming home without feeling overwhelmed. I'd love it if we had a friend to accompany us in the buggy and to groups and give me courage and my baby fluffy friendship."

"This year I have lost three close family members, and am also in the middle of a divorce. Although I have wonderful friends, I really miss having someone to just hold me whilst I have a good cry! And, I suppose, most bears don't mind giving cuddles whilst I cry. I'd usually buy a bear myself, but every time I've tried recently I find myself quite tearful. I'd love a bear that someone else has chosen, and would be happy with any - even if they look a bit battered or worn out - as I'm a bit (emotionally!) worn out too!"

"I’m about to head off to university, and I’m quite scared for the change. It’s the biggest change in my life, having lived on the same street for 18 years, with the same people in a place I truly love. I’m terrified of not being able to make friends, and hate the fact I have to leave behind the ones I’ve known since I could first walk. Trying to navigate the world on my own, at least for a little bit seems very daunting, and trying to find ways to manage a chronic condition alongside everything else. A cuddly friend would be a reminder that it’ll be all okay, and that change isn’t always a bad thing."

"Its been an incredibly challenging few months with a sudden and unexpected bereavement and then a beloved pet passed unexpectedly im still trying to catch my breathe. I am in truth broken and i didnt want to say it out loud so i am saying it here, A safe space for me to be vulnerable and raw and also see that there is always hope with goodness still in the world wishing everyone hope, healing and strength to get through the darkest days."

"Someone who hurt me still works alongside me, and I’m finding that incredibly difficult. I’m angry that nothing seems to have changed for them, while I’m still dealing with the impact."

"My dad passed away suddenly from cardiac arrest and I was with him when it happened. It has been several months and I feel like I should be “past it”, but I’m not, and I miss him so much. I feel like nobody understands. He was my hero and one of the most important people in my life. I would love a furry friend to comfort me on the days when the grief feels too heavy to carry on my own."

"Hello all! Me and my toddler are currently away from home due to domestic violence. We have a handful of belongings between us and things have been very turbulent for us the past week.
I would love a stuffy friend for my toddler to love.
And maybe even a stuffy friend for me as well!"

"I've been feeling really lost and quite lonely recently, like I need a huge hug. I love autumn but with the summer ending and having to go back to the reality of being a grown up, it's made me very down and missing spending quality time with my loved ones. My family lives 300 miles away from me and I really miss them 😢 I will never be too old to need a cuddle from my mum. Nearly all my friends never have time to see me anymore as they're all busy."

"Hello friends. I struggle a lot with OCD & anxiety, that can often be debilitating & make leaving the house difficult, even when I have places to be. I’m often lonely, and struggle to make friends as a result, but I feel life would be easier if I had someone to go with me on adventures & reassure me on my hardest days that I’m far from alone."

"Hello kind people. I’m currently struggling with my mental health. It means I’m quite isolated and I rarely leave the house. I’m having therapy, but life has felt very lonely lately. I’m always tempted by the scruffy or smaller bears, one that would sit by my side and not feel they were missing out on adventures. Sending love to all xx"

"My mum suffers from Alzheimer’s and is going through a difficult time. She loves cats especially, but all soft toys! She sits with them on the sofa and they bring her a lot of comfort. As her carer, it’s so difficult for me too. But we try and make the best of what we can 🥹"

"In all honesty, life has felt a little bit daunting lately. For context, I am a trans man and have been on the waiting list to see a gender therapist for over 10 years now, and I can't help but feel frustrated and a little deflated that I haven't been able to get anywhere with my journey. On top of that, one of my grandparents is in the late stages of dementia and is now beginning to forget me entirely - both who I am now and who I was before my transition. It's hard to navigate this situation sometimes, especially with my autism sometimes making it difficult to bridge the gaps, and it's even more so a struggle on my off days when I can't regulate myself properly. I have always found comfort in cuddly friends during these times, so any kindness would really make my day. Regardless though, thank you to anyone who takes the time to read this - you are amazing. Stay strong <3"

"Ever since becoming a mum I have seen the world very differently. It is beautiful but I am treated so differently and it’s a constant battle. I have had to deal with the emotional changes, anger, tiredness and frustration. I love my son and wouldn’t change a thing. But the loneliness is something I never expected. I love being a mummy but I miss my friends. I am at a different stage in my life and they’ve automatically stopped being there. Never first to text and or invited to things. I rarely see them now. I feel forgotten, uncared for. If I didn’t have my husband and son I would go mad. It’s so hard to balance who you were with what you are. Everything is a juggling act, I can’t drop anything or things would fall apart. A job that I thought understood these struggles and supported me have done the opposite, being treated as a stranger after being on Mat Leave, despite me being there over a decade."

"Posting this on behalf of my housemate; they've been through a really rough time recently, and could really use a bit of joy at the moment. This week, their cat unfortunately passed away, just over a year old; it was very unexpected and hit everyone in the house really hard. She was such a friendly and affectionate cat who they'd been taking care of since the moment she was born, and who helped them through some very difficult times. They've given me their permission to make this post and ask for a friend to keep them company and make the house feel a little less empty; thank you so much for keeping them in your thoughts."

"Today should be my dad's 70th birthday and I miss him terribly. He passed away late 2025 and although he was battling motor neurone disease it was unexpected and sudden. I'm trying really hard to try and stay strong but what I could really use is a cuddle, someone to tell how I'm feeling, someone to keep me safe. I love you dad x"

"I’m going through my first breakup with my first love and I’m in peices !! It’s been 6 weeks ish and I thought I was beginning to move on but I think I’ve just began to accept he’s not regretting it or waiting for me like I am for him…and it’s hard all over again
I used to take the mick out of sad break up talk because I thought “wow I wish my problems were that simple” but I apologize to all the poor souls i unknowingly made a judgement on !!! This pain is not simple and it’s one of the worst feelings I’ve ever felt because it’s just so totally not in my court at all

A-Z there is a story , a feeling , a place that reminds me of him and I look around and he is nowhere to be seen but he is absolutely everywhere and in everything I know !!

I feel a bit lonely in all honesty but at least I feel like me now."

"I am in my late 20s, disabled, no friends, no family, no job, low income, stuck in the countryside with no transport and despite kind people giving me a room to rent so I wouldn't be homeless anymore, I feel so isolated and lost. Its just been me for a very long time with strangers helping where they can. But I'm so tired of a fight that doesnt end. Between money, health, isolation and housing, it can feel too much at times. So when it rains its reminds me that we cant have flowers without a bit of rain."

"I've been chronically ill since late 2010 and now I'm on the waiting list to see a gynaecologist for suspected endometriosis. I've been on the list since June and the waiting time is getting longer and longer; I'm stuck in a horrible limbo with no other options, struggling with new, ongoing, unpredictable symptoms in addition to all my everyday symptoms.

Medically, I think I've had more than enough for one person, especially from such a young age (I was just a teen when I got ill), and it's a tough pill to swallow sometimes, regardless of how strong I am mentally."

"I just got diagnosed with autism, and have been told I need to go back to trauma therapy. It's been a really hard year, and now I know there's also a really long road ahead. My family don't get why I needed the assessment, and what the diagnosis means. I've been lost for so long, and constantly burnt out. I'm trying to find my way but just it's all been quite lonely. I've heard that stuffed animals can really help with autism, especially in public places. A little stuffy I can keep in my bag as a companion feels like I'll be just a bit less alone in this whole thing."

"My lovely dad has recently died of advanced bladder cancer. He was diagnosed in May and died at the end of August. It would have been his birthday this September. My heart is broken and I don't like leaving the house or getting up each morning."

"Im a SEN mum to 2 additional needs daughters who are struggling with the loss of their beloved grandpa and im struggling with the loss of my amazing Dad.
Life feels very hard right now."

"I’m in my late twenties and I left my abusive ex a while ago now, in the process they turned my friend group against me. I’m glad to have survived but it’s just me and my pet against the world and sometimes it’s lonely. Thank you for reading my story."

"Life is, well "lifeing" right now. This year has been one thing after the other, no one tells you that life throws so many curve balls, I am currently dealing with heart failure and other health conditions in my early 30's post pregnancy that I didn't even know was a possibility, and I'm very worried about my mum. All in all having a lovey stuffy that I can share it's story with my child would bring some much needed love and light into the dark - thank you to the kind souls taking the time to read this, and thank you for being a ray of light for whoever you help out xx"

"I've just broken of a 4 years abusive relationship and it's extremely hard to deal with especially when you feel like you're all alone with no one to talk to."

"I struggle with anxiety, depression and OCD, which makes it difficult to leave my house. I often feel lonely and would love to have a bear for support when I try to challenge my OCD."

"I'm in my mid 30's and I'm incredibly lonely. I've always struggled to maintain friendships and I've realised that now, I don't actually have any true friends. Other than my daughter, and the brief 'how do' on the school runs, I rarely have a proper conversation, and some days the reality of that is really hard."

"A little over 5 weeks ago my soul-dog passed away and it has completely broken me. I don’t know who I am without him anymore. I feel so lost and so sad all the time. I got him as a rescue when he was 2.5 weeks old and bottle fed him and he died just before his 5th birthday. I feel like my little Charlie had a lifetime stolen from him and I don’t know how to ever come back from this. I wish I could get a cuddle from him one more time. He was my little scruffy wire haired dachshund boy and I would just love another hug from him."

"Having a difficult time at work feeling really anxious all the time sicky and trying to keep going was told my qualifications are no use so can longer work in a school wondering what the point of it all is."

"I’m 24 years old and going through a really tough/scary time in my life at the moment.
I’m having horrendous tummy issues which has ended up with me being tested for cancer as the doctors are really concerned of my symptoms.
I’m feeling really anxious about all the appointments I’ve got coming up in the next few weeks and I could really do with a teddy to help me get through it."

"I feel very lost and alone. My 13 year old daughter was diagnosed with autism last year and then her school caused her so much trauma she was unable to access it anymore. She's had severe anxiety and autistic burnout and has been out of school for a long while now.
Everything is a fight and a long wait - the autism referral took several years to be done then several more on a waiting list to be assessed. The mental health support is non existent for us both and I am everything to her on top of being her mum and a single parent. I'm her full time carer, advocate, teacher, therapist, shoulder to cry on, best friend, and I'm being crushed under the weight of it all. Nobody understands or supports us and I feel like I'm drowning. I have multiple health problems which are getting worse due to the level of stress I am under 24/7 along with sleep deprivation and fighting daily. I could really do with a hug."

"Hi, I used to have a professional job in the public sector. I loved it. I then suffered with some health issues and was retired early. The health issues have come back to bite me on the ass recently where I suffered a heart issue and ended up in hospital. I’m awaiting further tests and results of others. I feel fed up and a little lost.
Just wanted to share as it’s all a bit rubbish."

"I lost my 24 year old daughter suddenly - no warning, no illness just gone. They don’t even know why.
Yes I absolutely have seen therapists and grief counseling so please don’t worry!
I have been wading through what has felt like quicksand for awhile now - sometimes the best thing in the world is just a hug ♥️"

"This year I suffered a miscarriage and have now developed OCD because of the struggle. I also just had to have my dog put down this year has been really difficult I could really use some comfort."

"I am going through a break up after being with them for 10.5 years. I had thought he was the love of my life and I am really struggling with no longer having him in my life now. I am now struggling with my health too and could do with a bear hug. Thank you for reading and thinking of me."

"My good friend is going to be receiving multiple surgeries to correct things after years of living with a disability that will affect them for the rest of their life. All after losing loved ones to cancer and watching their parent go through cancer all recently. They're petrified of hospitals and anything medical, so they're a bag of nerves and having to do therapy before the surgery. A cuddly friend would be wonderful to have to help them get through it all. They are the most selfless person I've ever known and only ever put other people above themselves. They deserve a comforting friend. :) "

"Over the last three years I have lost three family members. This year, my dog died and just one week ago my dad was diagnosed with a brain tumour. I feel like I have been grieving so many things for so long and yet never really giving myself time to process any of it because I would rather feed my time and energy into supporting and helping others. I only have one friend and so I feel lonely often, I know a stuffed toy is just a stuffed toy but it’s also comfort. It’s non-judgmental love and I would love a companion. A glimmer of hope in an otherwise really dark part of life. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider me."

"I have EDS, PoTS and have recently been diagnosed with inoperable cysts at S1/2 on my spine. I have them both sides, so they’re slowly eroding the bone in my spine, too. I am mostly housebound, spending the majority of my time in bed or laying on the sofa, and it can be a lonely existence. I would love to have a new bestie to cuddle with - someone that can be my buddy through my hospital appointments and help make me feel like I’m not so alone in this. Thank you so much for reading."

"I lost my job, a family member passed away and even when living alone, things are expensive. There have been lots of difficult things to navigate and i could do with a furry friend to help ease the overwhelm, especially at night."

"I have struggled with my mental health since I was in primary school. I get so overstimulated (mainly with sensory stuff - I am in the process of being tested for ADHD and autism) which leads to overwhelm and shutdowns which make my vision fade and can leave me to be unable to move which feels really scary. I learned to cope through unhealthy mechanisms and although I am getting help now it is a still something I struggle with. Although I know I have support I still feel isolated."

"The last few months have been some of the weirdest of my life.

Out of nowhere, I received a cancer diagnosis and was immediately wrapped up in a whirl of appointments, tests, scans and ultimately surgery.

The good news? Surgery was successful and I’m in remission.

The bad news? I feel incredibly guilty - guilty that I don’t need “more”, that I’ve somehow got off lightly, that I’ve not properly “done cancer”. I should feel over the moon and lucky, but I’m still healing from the surgery and my fatigue is heavy. A small, quiet companion to give me a gentle reminder that it’s ok not to be ok would be amazing."

"My daughter is a young teen who has multiple health issues & learning disabilities. We recently found out that she has a rare disorder, which there is very little information about & it feels quite isolating & heavy navigating all of this at the moment. She's such a sweetheart, who loves animals & soft toys, and would be so thrilled to have someone to cuddle during all the tests & uncertainty."

"I miscarried our baby boy early last year, loosing him was absolutely devastating for us, we had his name picked out; little baby bits and bobs, my little girl was excited to get a little brother. Following loosing him, we then miscarried again two more little ones, they didn’t quite make it to the end of the 1st trimester.

I have undergone tests to find out what may be wrong with me, and have found that I have APS (sticky blood syndrome) which makes carrying a baby very hard.

Watching my family and friends be able to carry babies effortlessly, is so hard. I desperately want a friend for my little girl, she would be the best big sister, and my heart hurts on how I so want to have another little one. As my little girl is getting older, I am having to let go of stages and times which I miss as she is becoming more independent, but I am grieving the fact I may never be needed the way I had been, and I may never experience these times again."

"Over the last year, my health has really declined and I’ve found myself too tired to do the things I used to enjoy. I find myself isolating from friends and family more despite needing comfort more than ever. I’m trying to cope with the new normal and find a rhythm that works for me, but because this has affected me so much mentally, I find myself with such a lack of motivation and I just yearn for the person I used to be."

"I lost my grandpa last year and still feel weighed down by grief. I miss him so much and wish I could talk to him as there's so much happening in my life I'd love to be able to tell him. I miss all the time we used to spend together and now life feels lonely."

"Well last year I ended a very long relationship with a guy, because I barely saw him and didn't feel like a priority to them which was incredibly hard as I loved them. I tried to do it as kindly as possible as they were my best friend, but I recognised that this relationship was damaging my mental health. My friends convinced me to go on internet dating and so I did, I met a guy just expecting one date at best. Despite not being ready I ended up in what I believed was a relationship, a couple of months ago I was having a bad depressive episode and asked what his feeling were towards me, his response was I don't know. We had been together several months and seeing each other very regularly, gone on holiday, as well as being introduced to his family & friends, yet he still considered me as someone he was just dating. Despite never arguing and having a good relationship until that point he's ended it and isn't speaking to me. Today he's brought the last of my stuff over. So I had 15 years with a guy that loved me but didn't spend time with me and 10 months with someone who spent time with me but didn't love me. At this point in my life, I've lost faith that I'll ever find anyone who will love and fully choose me. My health isn't the best and I'm trying to stay positive, but can't help thinking I'm the problem here.

"My daughter, aged 10 is going through a lot of anxiety and depression. She's very lonely whilst at school and feels like she never fits in. She absolutely loves teddies and I thought maybe if it comes from a random stranger, maybe she wouldn't feel so alone."

"My wonderful husband is suffering from several medical issues since long time. He has had back surgery last year, which worked out well, but there are still other issues, he must deal with chronical pain day by day, plus suffering from PTSD.
I try my very best to give best support, but I feel I can't really do anything to make things better..
Maybe some warm bear hugs would help."

"I’m currently on my IVF journey! I feel very overwhelmed and I am really hoping for a good outcome. It’s hard doing meds/ injections and still going to work acting like everything is fine.

We’ve had a tough few years together me and my husband, where we’ve lost a lot of our family to cancer and Covid.

I’m just hoping it’s now our turn for some good!"

"I am 8 months pregnant and my pregnancy has been anything but smooth. I have had multiple health complications including needing to have emergency surgery. It was a really traumatic time as I thought I could lose my baby. I had complications after that and still do now. On top of that I found out my partner has been unfaithful multiple times during my pregnancy. This special pregnancy feels tainted and that the joy of it all has been taken from me. I am trying really hard to heal and keep strong for my baby but worry they’ve had lots of stress due to all of this."

"I feel so lonely. I can’t seem to make any friends, and when I do think I’ve found one, I’m only disappointed in the end. I’ve just had an adult diagnosis of ADHD + autism, and whilst it is nice to have an explanation for the way I feel so alien. I just wish I was normal."

"I run a YouTube channel and have also created a group. Recently, the group reached 5K members, and my YouTube channel is slowly growing too.
But honestly, I don’t know. I have this constant feeling of impending dread that I can’t seem to shake.
I know some people might look at what I’ve created and think I’m lucky. I’ve built a community, my YouTube channel is growing, and I have people who enjoy what I make. But I don’t always feel lucky. Sometimes I’m just scared.
When I created the group, I had one sole goal in mind: to give people somewhere to go, because I didn’t have somewhere like that when I was growing up. Stuffed animals helped me through so much, and I wanted other people to have a place where they could find that same comfort.
My YouTube channel has nosedived quite recently, even though I have so many ideas and things I want to make. I want to make videos. I want to grab a stuffed animal and create something with it. But sometimes even finding the motivation to actually do it feels incredibly difficult.
And underneath all of that is this feeling of impending doom — like somehow it’s all going to be taken away from me at some point.
I know I might sound silly saying that. I know some people might think, “You’ve got thousands of members, your channel is growing, you should be happy.” And I understand that.
But sometimes I feel so alone.
It reminds me of how I felt when I was a kid — like I’m standing somewhere surrounded by people, but somehow still completely on my own.
I suppose this is my little reminder that even when you create a place for other people to feel safe, sometimes you still need somewhere to put your own feelings too."

"At the moment I constantly feel like I’m failing and it’s exhausting. I feel like I’m letting everyone down all the time.
I’m trying work to work on ideas to make things better, but I have no clue if any of them will work out.
I wish I knew which one I should invest my time in, which one will help me resolve my problems."

"The opening of the lovely wall today, also marks 1 year since I lost my amazing husband to cancer. He was my best friend and soul mate and gone too soon. He would always help others and always tried to stay positive, even towards the end. Heaven gained a lovely bright star. The past year has been hard with grief and having to learn to be on my own. We never had children as wasn't meant to be, but he was such a kind and caring person and he was my family. It would be lovely to have a fluffy friend to take on adventures with in memory of my husband and to be there, when you just need a hug."

"My son is 9 and is being investigated for autism at the moment, it's obvious he is neurodiverse but only recently has he started realising he is "different."
He keeps telling me has no friends at school, other kids won't play with him and they run away from him. He has angry outbursts when he is overwhelmed and they haven't forgotten that, but he is just a little boy that desperately wants some friends.
He takes a plushie to school every day to feel safer and happy, they help, but I wish I had a magic wand to fix everything."

"This is something I want to do for my mum. She's been through the absolute ringer the last few years. Survived a heart attack, two types of cancer, lost her husband, is suffering with spinal issues now. She's struggling so much but she never shows it. I can never get her something nice to show her how much she means to me. I'm a full time carer for my partner and I can't afford to do something nice for her. So hoping I can have something nice to give her."

"This last year has been very tough. I rescue guinea pigs and had 10 at the beginning of the year and I’ve unfortunately lost 4 due to medical issues like cancer which has broken my heart. I miss them so much.
I’m moving out in a couple of months time to live with my partner and although I’m looking forward to it I’m very anxious too and I could do with a companion to help me through. I unfortunately can’t take my animals with me so my parents are going to look after them still but I’m going to miss seeing them every day.
Im also struggling with ibs and am finding it tough dealing with that and the heartache of losing my wonderful animals and the stress of moving out soon."

"filling out the DLA form for my kiddo who’s autistic and realising just how much she truly struggles is the most gut wrenching part of parenthood."

"Feeling low at the moment being made redundant from my job it’s the anniversary of loosing my children and birthday coming up know I won’t receive anything as my partner doesn’t buy gifts not close to my mum and just really tearful."

"I suffered severely with post natal depression when I had my son in January 2025. It took a few months for me to get help as referrals went missing. Eventually I was able to see a therapist and was given medication to help. I can’t remember anything of my son from newborn to 5 months old. My memory is blocked from the trauma I was suffering. I am now a lot stronger and better but still have down days where I feel sad that I missed out on so much when he was a baby. Whenever I see a baby it breaks my heart that I’ll never be able to get that time back with my son."

"I have just had my third miscarriage and I feel so lost, so empty and so confused why my body has let me and my babies down."

"I’ve never grown up with my family, it didn’t bother me until I got older and realised people think I’m a bit odd. I have autism and it hurts me sometimes that people think I’m odd or strange. I spent a long time wanting to be normal, have a family or friends. I live with my partner, he’s all I have but when he goes out I feel terribly alone.
I think the idea of this is really sweet, even if someone just reads and relates that’s enough for me."

"I am feeling very lonely recently. I have my husband, his mum and one online friend but thats all. I always struggled with finding friends since I was very young but the last few years it has been getting harder and harder to not have anyone else I can connect with. I try to put on a brave face and to come out of my shell to meet people but sadly no friendships have come out of anything yet. I am grateful for my husband but sometimes having a “bestie” would be amazing."

"Hello,
Trying to be strong and not terrified right now. Baby was born at 29 weeks due to pre eclampsia and not growing. We are on day 42 of our journey in the NICU and home time isn’t looking too far away now! Would love a special bear or friend for her to come home to and someone I can borrow for a strengthening cuddle too!"

"After 22 years, I have finally been diagnosed with Dyscalculia, but it still makes going to my volunteering post behind the till in a shop hard, especially when customers are not patient and belittle me during my shift when I am just trying my best with what I have. Having a little paw I could secretly hold in my bag might be nice."

"I lost my job a few months ago and am finding it so stressful to find something new, and can barely get by on what little freelance work I've found. When I'm feeling lowest I wish I had a bear friend to cuddle, but the idea of buying one just seems like a luxury I can't afford or justify."

"It feels awful trivial when looking at other posts on the wall but I’m having a bit of a debate about what I want to do for my next steps career wise- I’ve worked for 6 years (and spent a fair amount of money) to get my masters degree in the job I have now but recently I’ve just fallen out of love with it. I’ve been working on music and songwriting and I absolutely love it but lack confidence in actually doing it. I’d love to do more with that and leave my current job but I just don’t think I’m brave enough (or maybe good enough) to do it and I don’t want to have wasted so much time and money on this. It’s something that is ALWAYS on my mind."

"Hi friends. Parenting a 22-month-old is an incredible, exhausting journey, especially as an autistic parent experiencing post-adoption stress. Having stuffed friends helps lift the weight and reminds me I'm not doing this alone."

"Our soon to be 2 year old adoptive daughter's move home was unexpectedly brought forward from November to August 27th, so we are currently in a mad panic (and excitement!) for the huge life change we are undertaking. It has suddenly become very real and a fluffy forever friend waiting to welcome her home would be such a special comfort as she begins this new chapter 🥰"

"So. I'm dealing with a lot of medical stuff right now on top of going back to work and this medical stuff is a lot and pretty overwhelming and, I suppose, life changing and so I'd love a friend who I could just cuddle with and rant to whenever life sucks and they'd listen and just. . .somehow know what I need, you know? All the health stuff just seems to keep coming when I dare to hope that it might be sorted. It's been like this for years and i'm just so tired of all of it.
Admittedly, I have many teddies but they are my comfort and i'm not ashamed of that despite my age. So yeah haha, that's me."

"i’m currently trying to recover from anorexia and have been struggling to stay motivated and strong enough to keep trying. when i have my treatment sessions i usually sit there anxiously fiddling with my hands, i would love a little friend to take with me to keep me grounded during appointments. when i first had an eating disorder in 2020 my mum was there to support me and help me recover but she passed away on boxing day 2023 and there’s nothing i wouldn’t give to have her support for this recovery journey. whilst a stuffed toy wont replace her, any comfort i can use to aid my recovery would make me so grateful. ive been signed off work since march and miss my work friends so much, i could do with the company of a little friend. thank you for reading 🧸❤️‍🩹 "

"Hello friends. I am chronically ill and the last few months have been especially hard with worsening symptoms. things have felt exhausting and a bit scary. I have important appointments coming up that I am anxious about and really hoping will go well."

"Recently I am getting more anxious of leaving the house or going to a new place that I haven’t been before which can make me very overwhelmed. I try to get myself out of my comfort zone but at the moment I’m finding it hard."

"I lost a friend almost 3 years ago and I think of her every day."