Being in the hospital can take the excitement out of the holidays, particularly for children who enjoy this magical time of the year. Carle Foundation Hospital (CFH) invited a special visitor to the inpatient Pediatric floor this year to bring smiles, small gifts and spread Christmas cheer.
With her rosy cheeks and traditional red velvet dress. Mrs. Claus made her way from room to room on the pediatrics floor of CFH to bring a brief respite from medical concerns of the day. Mrs. Claus is also known as Patty Metzler, RN, who has worked in the Emergency Department at Carle Foundation Hospital for 47 years.
“If you can do anything to brighten their days, let’s do it,” she said. “When you are in the hospital everything seems a little intimidating and a visit can break up the day.”
Right before being discharged, Beckham Shaw, 4, of Loda welcomed Mrs. Claus and let her know he had seen Santa everywhere. “He gets around doesn’t he?” she said. “He likes to make kids happy.”
Another 4-year-old, Sebelle Baxley of Urbana arrived at the hospital yesterday. As someone with asthma,
she faced challenges from a case of RSV. However, that did not stop her from sharing a joke with Mrs. Claus. “Why did the banana go to the doctor? Because he wasn’t ‘peeling’ well.”
Child Life Specialist Lead Sara Krewson, MS, CCLS, said because of the specialty care provided at inpatient Pediatrics, it stays rather busy on most days and bringing someone in to visit means shining a little light into their day.
“Words cannot express how much we appreciate the love and generosity of community members who donate to support our young patients. We want to pour thanks out to the community as those donations that provide a surprise gift to children are not only used during the holidays but all year long.”
Santa Claus and/or Mrs. Claus made stops at the Extended Care Suites at Carle Richland Memorial Hospital in Olney and at Carle Health Pekin Hospital, as well as in Peoria at Carle Health Methodist Hospital and Carle Health Proctor Hospital.
Categories: Culture of Quality, Community
Tags: Carle Foundation Hospital, child life, pediatric inpatient care, pediatrics, Santa