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Santa and Elves Rappel Down Roanoke Carilion Children’s Hospital to bring Holiday Spirit to Sick Kids

ROANOKE, Va. – Santa Claus made a memorable entrance in Roanoke today, trading his sleigh for some ropes and a little help from Roanoke Fire EMS. Along with his elves, Santa spread holiday cheer to children at Carilion Children’s Hospital, offering a much-needed break for families spending the holidays in the hospital.

It’s not every day that Santa rep down the side of a building, but that’s exactly what happened at Carilion Children’s. Santa gave patients and families a moment of magic during challenging times.

Sarah Kress, a certified child life specialist at Carilion Children’s, said, “Usually Santa is sitting down or maybe standing and waving, so this is like Adventure Santa. I think it’s really, really fun for the kids to not only see Santa but to see him do something so daring.”

10 News was told Roanoke first responders have an in with Santa and helped escort Santa and his elves to the hospital, ensuring their arrival was nothing short of spectacular. As Santa made his way down the side of the building, he waved to the kids inside, creating a magical moment for the young patients watching from the windows. The scene was filled with smiles and laughter as Santa greeted the children with his signature jolly spirit.

Mary Fliciano, the grandmother of a patient, shared her thoughts on the special visit: “Because otherwise she wouldn’t be able to leave the hospital to go anywhere to see Santa, and it was very nice that somebody thought to come here and get on scaffolding and be able to see the children through the glass in the waiting room and the kids to see Santa Claus.”

Santa didn’t just stop to wave; he spent time interacting with the children and their families, bringing joy and cheer in a time of uncertainty.

“It just brings a light to their eyes, and you see that bit of magic and spark, and then that’s when you really get to see the kids have more energy and feel better,” said Kress.

For families facing the challenge of being away from home during the holidays, the visit was a welcome and uplifting surprise.

Fliciano added, “She’s been through a tough time, and I think this was just a prize winner for her really.”

Santa’s visit to Carilion Children’s Hospital brought holiday cheer and much-needed emotional support for families this season.


About the Author
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Kelly Marsh joined the team in July 2023.