Cherished Teddies, which hit the market in 1992, have quickly become some of the most sought-after collectible figurines in the entire decorative arts industry. In fact, the Cherished Teddies Club is one of the most popular collector's clubs in the country. Out-of-production Cherished Teddies can often inspire avid desire from dedicated collectors. The inspiration for each Teddy comes from various drawings by artist Priscilla Hillman. Although Hillman majored in botany, she went back to her true love of art after her son was born in 1969. She is the creator of the nine Merry Mouse books published by Doubleday. However, it wasn't until years later when an accident left her flat on her back for some time that she began to form her ideas for Cherished Teddies. It was in 2004 that the Cherished Teddies Club celebrated its 10th anniversary. The club gives what they call "membears" certain gifts upon joining. In addition, membears get the opportunity to purchase special membears-only Teddies. There is also a monthly newsletter, The Town Tatler, to help keep members in the loop with all their favorite and new bears. Each bear comes with its own adoption certificate, which can be filled out and mailed to the Cherished Teddies Adoption Centre for registration. Every year, Cherished Teddies comes out with a new bear to use to raise money for a select foundation. Recently, this bear was titled, "You are an Inspiration to Me." It's a female bear holding a smaller bear and proudly wearing a pink ribbon representing breast cancer awareness. A portion of the proceeds are donated to the Breast Cancer Awareness Fund. | 
