Cape Town - While the holiday season is a joyful time for many children, playing with their friends, enjoying family traditions and receiving gifts, it can also be difficult and emotional for those children and families who spend these days in hospital.
With the help of several partners, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital (RCWMCH) hosted its annual festive parade to spread joy and festive cheer to patients, their families and healthcare workers.
The day started with members from Wilderness Search and Rescue (WFAR) abseiling from the roof of the hospital, dressed in costumes sponsored by Fancy That Costume Rental, adding to smiles and excitement to those looking from below.
Dr Anita Parbhoo, CEO of RCWMCH, joined the team and abseiled from the hospital's roof, dressed as Snow White.
Zoe Rudolph, an 18-year-old matriculant dressed up as a princess and entertained the young audience singing some favourite Christmas carols.
The young patients were engaged with various games on the playground, coordinated by the hospital's Occupational Therapy Department and interns across the hospital.
Just after 10am, a special surprise arrived for the little ones, as Santa (Mr. Jacobs, a porter at the hospital) was escorted by a fire truck, courtesy of the City of Cape Town's Fire and Rescue Services' Salt River Station, Platoon 2. Santa was accompanied by his little helper, Kiran Pursad.
All children and their families, as well as staff, had the opportunity to take photos with Santa and the fire services team.
The young patients received gifts thanks to the generous donations from the hospital's Paediatric Wellness Team and Book Dash.
Behind the scenes, various other departments supported the event to ensure it was a fun-filled day for the children, including the Engineering Department, Nursing Department, the Hospital Facility Board, and all healthcare staff who dressed up to add to the festive atmosphere and make the day even more memorable for everyone.
Dr Parbhoo, thanked all partners for their participation on the day and urged all present to prioritise child safety.
The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness also highlighted the importance of safety for all children and acknowledged healthcare workers who, during this time, will be away from their families to care for their young patients.
Four year old Anthonica Adonis could not stop smiling as Santa made his way around the playground.
Her mother Davadine, said Anthonica who is a burn victim and in hospital for two weeks, couldn't contain her excitement.
“I told her that she would meet Santa, she didn't want to sleep. It was also special because she hasn't seen the outside world for the past two weeks.”
Little Jesse Mali, sat on her mom Lisa's arms, eyes fixed on the superheroes on top of the hospitals roof, while Lincoln Baatjies ,2, clapped when the firetruck pulled up.
His mom Crystal Booysen said the initiative from the hospital is one they will always treasure.
Hospital staff members Ulaily Stoffels, Shamiela January, Galiema Haroun, also joined the kids on the playground.
“I've been here for almost 18 years. This day is always a reminder of how wonderful this place is and especially for creating joy for the children,” January said.
“And it lets us be children again, to let our inner child out,” Stoffels playfully said.