Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Burke P. Bear?

Burke P. Bear, a 14 inch bean bag teddy bear made by The Boyds Collection in 1997, was named after our son, Burke P. Derr. Burke was a spirited Pennsylvania teenager who was a teddy bear collector, computer whiz, honor student and sports enthusiast who died due to Cystic Fibrosis (CF) in June of 1997. Burke was voted "Most Spirited" by his 1996 high school graduating class. The Boyds Collection re-issued a special 10th anniversary edition of Burke P. Bear in January, 2007.

What is the "Million $ Bear" Campaign?

The "Million Dollar Bear" campaign, formed in honor of Burke and in honor/memory of all people with CF, is designed to create an awareness of CF among millions of people and to also raise millions of dollars for CF research projects. The campaign has already touched the hearts of millions of people all over the world and has raised over $350,000 for CF research.

What is "Burke's Tour"?

"Burke's Tour, as a major part of the campaign, features Burke P. Bear traveling to each state, Canadian province, and world countries through a series of hosts. Each host encourages donations and takes Burke to visit hospitals, schools, and/or businesses. The traveling teddy has his own line of "Burke's Tour" clothing, and he has toured all 50 states and more than 30 countries. The Tour was initiated by Barry Thompson, a Massachusetts sponsor who is a PACFI member and Burke's Honorary Dad.

What is the "Burke's Tour" Book?

Burke's Tour is also the title of the book by Bob Derr that was published in December of 2006. The book tells an inspirational story of Burke's life and how people, businesses, and organizations are working together to complement Burke's legacy of love. Burke's Tour is available through Barnes & Noble, Borders, Amazon.com, or it can be ordered through your local book store. Signed copies are available by sending a check for $15 (covers book, tax, mailer, and postage) to Bob Derr, 410 Ninth Street, Selinsgrove, PA 17870. All proceeds from book sales will go to CF research projects.

Who is the PA Ambassador for Love?

Burke P. Bear was proclaimed "The Pennsylvania Ambassador for Love, Peace, Having Fun, and Curing Cystic Fibrosis" through a unanimous 199-0 vote by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in June, 1999. Burke received a Certificate of Merit from the U.S. Congress, a citation from the Massachusetts State Senate, and Special Recognition from the cities of Lubbock, Texas, and Auburn, Massachusetts. He was also appointed "Honorary Ambassador for Building Bridges of Light" between the Israeli and Palestinian peoples.

What Can You Find On The PACFI Website?

Our website includes a lot of information about PACFI activities in addition to information about CF and CF research.

How Are Funding Decisions Made?

Decisions regarding the disbursement of campaign funds are made by majority vote of the PACFI board of directors after each director has reviewed each researcher’s submission for funding.

How to Donate to PACFI?

People interested in donating to PACFI can donate through our online link. Additional information and questions can be addressed through our contact links.