(Click here to read some of Bernard's Famous Quotes)

As a fellow patient, Bernard has the ability to bring a smile

 and to provide trust, comfort and friendship. 

 Bernard and his Mommy work with the medical team to help

 children and their families

 cope with the fears and emotional stresses of hospitalization.

Through play children are able to express their feelings and

gain a greater understanding of their hospital experience.

Bernard was first admitted to the hospital in 1978

at the Cook Fort Worth Children's Medical Center

in Fort Worth, Texas,

where his Mommy completed her Internship.

Bernard was transferred to the

Mississippi Baptist Medical Center

in Jackson, Mississippi in 1979,

where he was a patient until March 1, 1991.

In 1989, Bernard's Mommy was appointed to the

Advisory Board for Compassionate Friends.

In 1987, Bernard and his Mom received the Spirit of Mississippi Award.

In 1984, Bernard's Mommy was selected by the

Mississippi Magazine as one of the top 84 Mississippians in the State.

Bernard's award winning video "Bernard, Are You Okay?"

(ACCH Media Festival, Honorable Mention, 1987)

is shown in children's hospitals throughout North America.

Bernard became the first green patient ever admitted to
Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center

in Memphis, Tennessee

on March 17, 1991.