SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN

One of my lifelong dreams was realized last tonight....playing Santa Claus.

When I was asked a few weeks ago by the staff at Holland Bloorview to be Santa at their Christmas party this year, I was thrilled.

"You'll be visiting children's rooms to begin with," said the program manager. "Then you and your helper (my fellow volunteer Carol) will go downstairs to the atrium where there will be music, food and lots of presents for the assembled children."

"How many kids do you expect?" asked Carol.

"At last count, we have presents for 68," replied the manager.

Fast forward to last night. I donned the red suit, the beard, hat and black boots and became Santa for a few magical hours. (Man, that suit was hot. )

As I entered the atrium to a chorus of "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," I was greeted with smiles and looks of delight on some of the children's faces. One little girl ran up to me and wouldn't leave my side. Others in wheelchairs were more subdued until I approached them to exchange a high five or a hug.

I got a chance to spend a few moments with each of the children and heard sweet requests for toys like Playmobils, Lego and anything Paw Patrol. One little boy asked for socks and new pajamas, another a video game.

An eight year boy approached Santa's chair and asked if he could tell me a secret.

"Of course," I answered, bending forward.

He put his mouth to my ear and whispered, "I know you're not the real Santa. I can see an elastic holding on your beard."

I felt caught out for a moment but then replied, "Well, I hope that can be our little secret."

The boy nodded and went off with a big smile.

Many of the children are not so verbal. And of course, those with trachs or brain injuries could not speak but they seemed to appreciate Santa's presence. The words "I love you" came easily as I posed for pictures with them.

Earlier in the evening, I met one such boy who was sitting in a chair in the bedroom he shared with three other children. He had a vacant look in his eyes as if he was staring at something far away. I tried to engage him with a few words but they didn't seem to register with him. I gently gave him his gift and then a Polaroid photo was taken that my Santa's helper left by his bedside. I then visited with the other children in the room but before leaving, I felt compelled to spend a few more moments with the boy in the chair.

I leaned in to wish him a Merry Christmas and kissed his forehead. To my surprise, a tear trickled down his cheek.

I could never have imagined that a tear would be my greatest Christmas present ever?