Court 'approves' young boy's appeal to adopt teddies
The Family Court of Western Australia has granted a seven-year-old boy approval to adopt several teddy bears, in a gesture described as “humanity at its best”.
After writing a letter to the court, the young boy received a sweet yet official-looking response, complete with a reference to the fictitious International Teddy Act of 1908 and a description of the adoptees as “a hug of teddy’s”.
“In the matter of Mr Denham, Baby Denham, Brown Bear, Bamboo, Special Teddy Jnr and Tiny,” the unofficial court order read.
“Before a Teddy in Chambers.
“Application having being [sic] made under the International Teddy Act 1908 for an adoption order in relation to a hug of teddy’s known as Mr Denham, Baby Denham, Brown Bear, Bamboo, Special Teddy Jnr and Tiny who reside in … Western Australia.
“It is ordered that the said Mr Denham, Baby Denham, Brown Bear, Bamboo, Special Teddy Jnr and Tiny be adopted by (the boy) to be treated lovingly as child and teddies.”
The Family Court’s order was shared on social media. Image: Twitter
A photo of the court order was shared on social media by the boy’s uncle, Dr Stephen Bright, prompting dozens of responses.
“Not sure how many similar requests they get, but this seemed to go above and beyond. Thank you,” he wrote on the since-deleted post.
Many shared how the story brought a “tear to the eye”.
“That is absolutely adorable, your nephew must be so happy! Such a beautiful, yet simple gesture, definitely put a smile on my face and a tear to the eye,” one person shared.
In a follow-up post, Dr Bright said: “I don’t usually post personal stuff on Twitter, though I’m glad I did share this as it seems to have touched so many people. It’s nice to be able to pay it forward.”
Some dubbed the gesture as an example of “humanity at its best”, while others shared their well wishes for the boy and his teddies.
“It’s lovely. These warm and kind actions show humanity at its best. We need this in our lives,” one person wrote.
“Sometimes it’s good to start my day with a happy cry. Thank you for sharing,” another said.
“This reminds me to have faith in humanity, both in adults and the next generation. My best to your nephew, his teddies and family.”
Image: Getty Images