Santa pays special visit to Munroe-Meyer Institute

Blair Sillman, left, was more interested in Santa’s beard than his gift. They are shown with Kelley McCormack, MMI recreational therapist.

It wasn’t Christmas morning, but the smiles were just as big Dec. 22 when Santa Claus arrived with a bag of toys for children at the Munroe-Meyer Institute’s Winter Camp.

“For the past eight years, we’ve had a tradition of inviting Santa Claus,” said Michael Crawford, Ph.D., director of MMI recreational therapy department. “Our winter camp program focuses on making the holidays special for all the kids. Having Santa Claus come makes it all the more wonderful for our kids.”

Santa Claus (who, when asked his real name, said, “Santa Claus!”) has donned the jolly man’s red suit every Christmas season for the past 31 years. His parents bought him his first Santa suit years ago; now he’s on his fourth one. It’s not unusual, in some environments, for the temperature to reach 130 degrees inside his suit, Santa said, yet it is always worth it.

Madi Colbert sits on Santa’s lap.

“I learn how lucky I am over and over again,” said Santa, his eyes glistening behind the thick white beard. “I’ve visited children in neonatal intensive care units, burn wards, and Alzheimer’s patients in nursing homes. That’s what makes this heavy hot suit tolerable – watching the reluctant frightened child slowly relax and enjoy the moment. That’s why I keep coming back.”

On Dec. 22, Santa Claus gave the MMI children new toys donated by businesses. His bag also included toys handmade by local craftsmen and toys Santa purchased himself.