ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Kids receiving care at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital in St. Pete received a surprise visit from a very special guest.
Jolly Old Saint Nick himself, Santa Claus, decided to give his reindeer a rest as he and Mrs. Claus arrived thanks to the hospital's Lifeline Transport Team, staff said in a news release.
"Ho, ho, ho, Merry Christmas!" Santa exclaimed cheerfully as he and his wife made their way inside the building.
Video from staff shows the heralded toymakers make their way through the hospital's walls, bringing smiles and laughter to children through tales of the North Pole's busy elves and reindeer.
"And he gave away toys to some special kiddos who have all been very good this year," staff said.
One little girl couldn't contain her excitement as Santa handed her a bear plush and a sticker matching her outfit.
"I met Santa!" the girl gasped in bewilderment.
Santa's visit was organized by the hospital's Child Life Team, who staff say put together special visits like this to make days and nights easier for the kids as they battle illness.
In a recent report from U.S. News and World, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital was ranked the number one children's hospital in the Sunshine State. To learn more about the hospital and its mission to improve the health and of the community and the world, click here.
Santa's full visit can be viewed below:
