Santa Claus is starting his Canada tour early this year as he stops by six of Vancouver Island’s hospitals today to cheer up the children..
In partnership with BCEHS and Helijet, the 18th annual “Santa Flights” is in full swing delivering toys and Christmas cheer to children currently receiving medical treatment at Victoria General, Surrey Memorial, Royal Columbian, Nanaimo Regional General, Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre, BC Children’s Hospital, and BC Women’s Hospital + Health Centre.
“Santa’s visits are magical as they lift the spirits of children receiving care in our hospitals. At the same time, the Santa visits also celebrate the dedication of our front-line workers, including specialized paramedics who provide such crucial medical care,” said Minister of Health Adrian Dix in a press release.
Santa is visiting children at Victoria General Hospital this morning, thanks to the generosity of @Helijet. Santa and our critical care #paramedic are flying to 5 other hospitals today bringing pre-Christmas cheer to young patients and front-line health care workers. @APBC873 pic.twitter.com/VBYGPQJ38A
— BC Emergency Health Services (@BC_EHS) December 13, 2022
This year Joanna Stefani, an Infant Transport Team (ITT) paramedic will join Santa for the air ambulance flights out of commemoration for her work transporting critically ill babies and young children to the hospital.
“Often, we meet patients and their families in medical emergencies. Today’s Santa flight is incredibly special, as we get to bring smiles to young patients in less stressful conditions. I am honoured to represent all paramedics in this wonderful holiday tradition,” said Stefani in a press release.
It's a special time for children at 6 hospitals today, as Santa delivers joys and gifts. #BCEHS Infant Transport Team #paramedic Joanna Stefani is honoured to be part of Santa's flight crew and to join in this holiday tradition courtesy of @Helijet. @APBC873 pic.twitter.com/Gnq4yBClKk
— BC Emergency Health Services (@BC_EHS) December 13, 2022
Danny Sitnam, President and CEO of Helijet will also be joining Stefani and Santa with pride, serving children and their families in a cheerful way.
“All of us at Helijet are happy to have this opportunity to help make the holiday season special for these courageous kids and their families who find themselves in hospital instead of at home as Christmas approaches,” said Sitnam in a press release.
After stopping by the Victoria General Hospital this morning, the team headed off to the Nanaimo General Hospital to spread holiday cheer, with four more stops left before the end of the day.
Santa's arrival at @BCChildrensHosp. Today, Santa accompanied by a cheerful elf, our critical care #paramedic and flight crew, is visiting 6 hospitals to lift the spirits of young children in hospital. Thanks to @Helijet for making this holiday tradition possible. @APBC873 pic.twitter.com/Jr0UD6Nxd5
— BC Emergency Health Services (@BC_EHS) December 13, 2022
