During the COVID-19 pandemic over the past few months, things have at times become sad or even stressful.

Former Blanco Mayor Martha Herden wanted to try to spread cheer to the hardworking, dedicated ICU nurses and staff. The idea of creating “Care Bears” came to her one night.

Jane Macon, owner of Alamo Miniatures of Twin Sisters in Blanco, helped connect the former mayor with an ICU in San Antonio. Shortly after, Herden created a Doctor Bear and a Nurse Bear to give to the ICU floor of University Hospital.

She was able to present the bears to George Hernandez, President/CEO of University Health System in San Antonio, Tommye Austin, Senior Vice President/Chief Nurse Executive of University Health System, and ICU staff members on Aug. 24. They will be displayed so that both staff and patients can view them.

The former mayor plans on creating more Care Bears to hand out to spread cheer.

“Everyone at this time needs a little something to lift their spirits,” explained Herden.