ORLANDO, Fla. — Santa and Mrs. Claus enlisted the help of Orlando and Orange County firefighters to help spread holiday cheer to pediatric patients at AdventHealth for Children.
The firefighters brought trucks, ladders and rappelling gear for the fifth annual Elf Rappel event to see children up close through the hospital’s windows.
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“We know that these children and families are going through a lot here,” said Greg Hubbard, captain of special operations for Orange County Fire Rescue. “Myself, and the group of elves behind me, we look forward to this every single year. We actually train for this year-round.”
Officials said some of the children visited by the firefighting elves will remain hospitalized throughout the holidays.
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“Being able to put a smile on a kid’s face during the holiday season makes us recognize we have it a lot better than a lot of other people,” said Aaron Rhodes, district chief of special operations for Orlando Fire Department. “If you can take a little time out of your day to provide some warmth and play some games outside of a window for a child who will not be able to make it outside for the holidays, what other job is going to give me that opportunity?”
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