Saying "goodbye" to Freddy Bear

Who is Freddy Bear? 

Freddy Bear isn’t just any teddy - he’s a sight-saving superstar! More than just being soft and cuddly, Freddy Bear has played a vital role in helping people around the world regain their sight. Inspired by the legendary Fred Hollows, Freddy Bear set out on a mission: to help more people see and smile again. And, just like Fred, he’s done an incredible job of helping restore sight to those living with avoidable blindness. 

“He cared about humanity as a whole. It doesn’t matter who you were or where you came from, you needed to be able to access that healthcare and treatment to better your life and existence,” Rosa Hollows (Fred and Gabi’s daughter).

What did he achieve?

Freddy Bear has travelled far and wide - from regional Australia to Vietnam and Eritrea. Over the past few years, thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we’ve sold more than 1,500 Freddy Bears. This has helped us restore sight thousands of people. That’s thousands of lives transformed - often through a simple 20-minute operation!

What’s changing? 

Freddy Bear has had an incredible journey - he has achieved his vision, bringing hope and sight to thousands. But now, it’s time for Freddy to hang up his adventurer’s hat. The Foundation will no longer be selling Freddy Bear, but we are endlessly grateful for the impact he’s made.  

We know that some may be disappointed by this, but rest assured our work to restore sight will keep going – and this is what we are focused on with great determination.  

What can you do now? 

You can still be a hero for sight! There are plenty of ways to support The Foundation, from becoming a regular giver to nominating someone for a Fred or Humanity Award, taking part in Fred’s Big Run, or even leaving a gift in your Will. 

Want to learn more?

We never know what’s in store in the future, so please follow us on social media @fredhollows for the latest updates. You can also give us a call at 1800 352 352 or email us at donations@hollows.org.