Christmas is the most magical time of the year for kids across the world, but it’s not always merry and bright for those who spend the season in children’s hospitals.
In order to put a smile on those children’s faces, Santa has been working hard with Cisco to provide a truly wonderful virtual experience, via Webex, for patients in Children's Health Ireland (CHI) at Crumlin and Temple Street.
Children didn’t need to worry about Santa finding them while they’re away from home this Christmas. This week, the ultimate ‘silver surfer’ is visiting virtually to speak to children personally about what they want for Christmas, coupled with a few impromptu sing-alongs and jokes with Santa, the children and their parent/guardian.
Children and teenagers attending CHI at Crumlin and Temple Street were able to have a live conversation via Webex by Cisco high-definition video system directly to Santa in the North Pole. The children and young people shared their Christmas wishes with him, while Mrs Claus and Santa’s elf helpers were on hand to give gifts in person to the children.
Around 170 children will spend this Christmas in CHI hospitals in Dublin.
Shane Hegarty, Managing Director for Ireland and Scotland Cisco, commented: “This is one of the most important things we do each year. We’re delighted to be working with Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin and Temple Street Hospital to connect a very busy Santa with some greatly deserving and inspiring young people.”
“The bravery of the children we meet, and those who look after them is incredibly overwhelming and we’re honoured to be able to lend our technology to spread Christmas cheer to patients and their families at a time when they may not otherwise be able to enjoy the season.”
