SANTA Claus made a detour via Cairns Hospital’s paediatric ward this week, as a warm-up to his big night on December 24.
Mr Claus said it was a pleasure to visit the children, aged from babies up to 18-year-olds, to wish them Merry Christmas and a speedy recovery.
Cairns Hospital paediatric ward acting nurse unit manager Justine Cunningham said ward staff and patients were always grateful for the attention they receive from the community particularly at Christmas, but all throughout the year.
“Christmas is a difficult time for children to be in hospital so anything that we can do to make their visit here a little more cheerful and bright always helps their recovery,” Ms Cunningham said.
Mr Claus, who snuck away to visit the children’s ward from his official duties at Cairns Central, said it made his day to bring a smile to the little ones in hospital.
Cairns Central Centre Manager Christie-Lee Jackson said the team had a suspicion Mr Claus was sneaking out for a few hours, but turned a blind eye.
“Cairns Central is thrilled to bring a little Christmas magic to those kids who can’t come and visit Santa this year in centre. We hope Santa brings some joy to the patients and families at Cairns Hospital Children’s Ward,” Ms Jackson said.
Santa and his professional photographer visited the Ward with free Santa photos for all the kids.
