Santa Visits Young Patients At Cottage Hospital

Some of the youngest patients at Cottage Hospital got a surprise visit from Old Saint Nick Monday morning in their hospital rooms.

“Ho, ho, ho, ho! Here we are again, Cottage Hospital! One of my favorite stops,” said Brent Anderson, who plays Santa Claus.

Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with two elves and toys, made sure their sleigh stopped by the pediatrics unit at Cottage.

“It’s the best part of the season,” said Kim Novak, who plays Mrs. Claus.

Seven-year-old Nathan was eagerly waiting.

“The present! Thank you. I can open it? Thank you guys. Thank you, Santa Claus,” he said as he sat on Santa’s lap.

A brand new Lego’s set will help keep him in good spirits during his stay at the hospital.

Mr. and Mrs. Claus handed out gifts and left every kid with a big smile.

Matthew Mayhew, 4, was excited for the early Christmas gift that will allow him to forget about being sick, at least for a while.

“He definitely wasn’t expecting it. Especially him knowing that we’re so close to Christmas and not sure if we’re going to be able to get home, I know it definitely means a lot for him,” said Leanne Mayhew, Matthew’s mother.

The money for the gifts was donated by the Santa Barbara Association of Health Underwriters. It’s an organization made up of insurance brokers in the county.

“It’s very touching, especially to see the reaction on the kids faces when they see Santa and when they receive a gift from Santa,” said Karla Torres, with the association.

“This is a very special place. It touches me deeply,” said Anderson.

Slideshow: Santa Claus Visits Young Patients At Cottage Hospital