October 4, 2005
Press Release

“Andy Bear” Program - A Special Addition to the Sheriff’s Office

Bedford, VA - Sheriff Mike Brown and the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office would like to invite the media to an emotional and uplifting presentation of Andy Bears to the Deputies of BCSO to be used throughout the community.

The Andy Bear program is part of non-profit organization called “Andy’s Light” which has been created as a memorial to the late Andy Wilks, a 24 year young man, who battled autism and multiple physical handicaps, but touched so many by his cheerfulness and enthusiasm for life.

Andy’s older brother, Jon, who is now a Bedford Sheriff’s Deputy, gave Andy a brown teddy bear when he left home to join the Air Force. Andy went through years of therapy, traveling to different hospitals in different states and never went anywhere without the bear. “It was such a comfort for Andy to keep this bear close to him”, said his mother, Carolyn. “Every child needs something they can cuddle in times of uncertainty, and I know that Deputies encounter such situations all the time. I want the memory of our son to be a comfort for others.”

Please join us for a presentation and speak to the family of this very special person who is sorely missed, but never forgotten;

11:00 am
THURSDAY, October 6, 2005
Bedford County Sheriff’s Office
Lower Level

Also See Andy's Light Foundation Press Conference Coverage (with photos)

Contact: Robin Sundquist – Admin Officer – 540.586.4800