December 17, 2020

Santa brings holiday cheer and presents to patients at JPCH

Santa made an exciting early visit to Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital to help bring some holiday cheer to young patients.

Children and families participated in a safe and socially distanced visit with St. Nick in the Child Life Zone on Thursday afternoon.

Kids also received a special holiday gift and a keepsake photo, thanks to the generosity of Graham Construction. Those who were unable to leave their hospital rooms were also included in the excitement, as Santa made his way down the halls of the pediatric inpatient unit.

“I’ve come from the North Pole, where the elves are very busy getting ready for the big day. Today, I’m making a special stop at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital to see all the boys and girls,” said Santa Claus. “I have lots to do for the big day, but can’t wait to be back on Christmas Eve.”

“This year it is more important than ever to bring normalcy to children in hospital. Santa coming is so exciting, as it gives families a chance to create memories and take a break from hospitalization. We are so fortunate to give the opportunity for play and magic during the holidays to all the patients of JPCH,” said Dominique Rust, Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Child Life Program Manager.

Santa’s visit was just one part of Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation’s Project Holiday Joy, which aims to bring the magic of the holiday season to children and families in hospital this December. It isn’t always possible to get kids home for the holidays, but this year, kids won’t miss out on the events that help make the holidays so special.

This week kids enjoyed decorating their own gingerbread houses right at their bedside, as well as fun holiday crafts. The upcoming Holiday Market in the Child Life Zone will give patients and families an opportunity to shop for a special gift for each other. Patients earn “Sunshine Bucks” for completing treatments, having a positive attitude and more, which they can cash to help buy a gift for a special family member.

“Project Holiday Joy gives Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation the opportunity to ensure that kids and families are not forgotten throughout the holidays. This year may be different than those in the past, however, everyone needs a bit of cheer and hope. This season will still bring excitement for children as they take part in the many activities, including a visit from Santa. The best presents for children and families that are hospital-bound are not those wrapped in paper, they are simple gestures of love. Thanks to our many donors, that is what we are bringing to the kids this year,” said Brynn Boback-Lane, President and CEO of Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation would like to thank the sponsors of Project Holiday Joy, including Graham, Viterra, Canpotex, CAA Saskatchewan and Jeep Saskatchewan.

If you would like to make a difference for children and families this holiday season, shop the Making Spirits Bright Holiday Gift Catalogue.