Santa Claus Soars Into Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford, Spreading Holiday Cheer

Stanford Medicine Life Flight crew makes a special trip to the North Pole, bringing Santa to the hospital

In a heartwarming holiday tale, Santa Claus made a special visit to Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford just before his global journey. Thanks to the incredible crew of Stanford Medicine Life Flight, a dedicated team of nurses traveled to the North Pole to bring Santa, ensuring that he could share joy with young patients, their families, and the hardworking staff at Stanford Medicine.

“When I initially heard the helicopter, I was expecting a patient,” recalled Megan Littleton, MD, pediatric resident. “But realizing it was Santa Claus was surreal. Witnessing our patients light up with joy made it an unforgettable moment.”

Santa’s presence has brought holiday joy to sick patients for decades, ensuring that none feel left out during the festive holiday season, even when they can’t be at home.

Brad Pratt, who hails from Washington, brought his daughter Kelsey to Packard Children’s for the best medical care. Santa’s visit not only brought joy to Kelsey but also was a morale booster and relief for him. “Seeing the hospital staff extend their care beyond medical needs to bring joy was amazing. It truly boosted our spirits, especially being far from home. Santa’s visit and gifts provided relief and happiness during Kelsey’s recovery,” Brad observed, his voice filled with appreciation.

Lori Eichner and her 3-year-old son, Camden, with Santa.

Lori Eichner and her 3-year-old son, Camden, were deeply touched by the visit. “Camden had never met Santa before. We were so surprised and grateful to have a one-on-one moment with him. Since Camden will be here for a few more days, Santa’s visit brought the Christmas spirit right to his bedside,” Lori noted with gratitude.

Santa himself shared his joy in making this visit. “I enjoy coming to Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford to ensure that the children and their families know they are not forgotten. It’s also a chance to express my gratitude to the staff for their incredible care and dedication,” he said warmly.

The excitement was palpable throughout the children’s hospital. Linda Lu, RN, along with her fellow nurses, watched from a fourth-floor office window, waving signs and cheering as Santa flew past. “We couldn’t believe it was Santa! His visit was the highlight of our day, and seeing him bring cheer to every room was incredible,” Linda said, her eyes twinkling with joy.

The Stanford Medicine Life Flight crew traveled to the North Pole to bring Santa to Packard Children’s Hospital.
Katja Kane-Foempe, RN, Emily Otto, RN, William Wu, RN, Randy Hough, RN, and Doug Evans, lead pilot

William Wu, RN, a clinical nurse with Stanford Medicine Life Flight, said this mission would be one of the most memorable flights of his career. “Typically, we deal with critical medical situations, but this special flight was about healing the soul. Providing a preflight briefing to Santa Claus was surreal, but the most significant part was spreading joy to the patients, families, and staff at Stanford Medicine. My heart is full from this experience,” William reflected sincerely.

The holiday spirit of kindness, joy, and togetherness was alive and well at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford, thanks to Santa Claus and the dedicated efforts of Stanford Medicine Life Flight and the hospital staff. This special visit ensured that holiday magic touched every corner of the hospital, bringing smiles and warmth to all.