CHICAGO (WLS) — On Christmas Day, La Rabida Children’s Hospital on the South Side received a special visitor: Santa Claus himself.

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Opting to give his reindeer a well-deserved rest, Santa made his grand entrance on Thursday aboard Engine 63 of the Chicago Fire Department, where he distributed gifts to the young patients throughout the hospital.

“Bringing joy to these children every year is a delight,” Santa expressed. “While I wish they were not spending their time in a hospital, it’s truly rewarding to bring a moment of happiness to their day.”

This unexpected visit was a heartwarming surprise for families, many of whom have been confined to the hospital for months, marking the holiday away from the comfort of home.

“Today is tough as we’re separated from family and friends,” shared Gabrielle Griffin, a patient’s mother. “After being in the hospital for 300 days, having my son early, today we just feel thankful.”

Griffin’s son, Amir Green, who was born prematurely at 26 weeks, is now a healthy 9-month-old, weighing 14 pounds, and greeted Santa with a beaming smile as he made his rounds.

“It’s been challenging, but today’s been good,” Griffin said. “He’s been up, he’s been happy, smiling, and he’s dressed like Santa Claus today.”

All of it added to a special tradition that has gone on for decades now, spanning across generations of Santa’s family.

“This is my 11th year… coming to La Rabida, and we’ll continue that tradition as long as our body allows us,” Santa said.