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Spreading joy through teddy bears
Doreen Lagoni of Libertyville delivers teddy bears to children and the elderly through Magic Bear of Lake County. | Michelle LaVigne ~ Sun-Times Media
Doreen Lagoni
AGE: 82
AVOCATION: Started Bear Magic of Lake County
WORDS TO LIVE BY: “I have to give. I have to help. It’s just part of who I am.”
Article Extras
Updated: November 20, 2012 8:12AM
Doreen Lagoni, 82. has lived in Libertyville since 1975. She started Bear Magic of Lake County in 1999 and to date she has delivered 70,921 bears and other toys to sick children, the elderly and others in need of comfort. Lagoni is chartered by Good Bears of the World, an organization founded in England in 1969. Today there are over 20 Good Bear “dens” like Lagoni’s all over the country. To donate money or new or used bears, Beanie Babies and more, please call (847) 367-0087.
Q. How and why did you start doing this?
A. I read an article in the paper about the lady that does this in Woodstock. I thought it sounded great and decided right then to get a charter from Good Bears.
Q. Why teddy bears? What makes them special?
A. They are such a comfort. They represent memories that never fade. And they’re great companions who are good listeners. They’ll keep all your secrets.
Q. Where do donations come from and who do they go to?
A. They come from individuals or from charitable organizations. The Rotary usually gives a sizeable gift every year. Recently I also had a donation from a mothers’ club here in Libertyville. I deliver the bears to all sorts of agencies like the police and fire departments, hospitals and emergency rooms in particular.
Q. How much do the bears cost?
A. I usually buy them wholesale for $1 each. So, you see, it doesn’t take a lot of money to make a big impact.
Q. What do you enjoy about running Bear Magic and what keeps you going?
A. I have to give. I have to help. It’s just part of who I am. This is my little effort and it’s very rewarding. People have asked me when I’m going to stop. I say, I’m not. As long as I’m breathing, I’m going to keep going.
