Santa Claus took some time away from the North Pole to visit the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital today (Wed). Young patients visited with Santa in the lobby of the hospital in the Teammates for Kids Child Life Zone, and whispered in his ear what was on their wish lists.

The Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation says this is just one of their Project Holiday Joy initiatives to bring some cheer. Other activities include special family movie nights, Jingle Bingo, decorating gingerbread houses, sugar cookies, stockings and ornaments, making Grinch slime and plenty of singing and music. The Holiday Market gives patients and families an opportunity to shop for a special gift for each other when they aren’t able to leave the hospital. Patients earn “Sunshine Bucks” for completing treatments and having a positive attitude.

President and CEO of the Foundation, Brynn Boback-Lane thanks supporters of the Project Holiday activities, which lets young patients know they are cared for, supported and that sickness doesn’t take a holiday, regardless of the season.