Maryland Heights, Mo (Dec. 19, 2025) – Santa Claus stopped by Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital for his annual pre-Christmas visit Friday, December 19, bringing holiday cheer and gifts to nearly 50 young patients as part of a long-standing community tradition.
Santa made his grand entrance at 10 a.m., escorted by the Maryland Heights Police Department, before spending the morning visiting with patients. Each child received a personalized gift selected from their wish list, with presents ranging from stuffed animals and clothes to headphones and gift cards.
“Traditions like seeing Santa are a big part of what makes the holidays magical, but many of our patients can’t experience them in the usual way,” said Shawn Dryden, Chief Executive Officer of Ranken Jordan. “Bringing Santa to the hospital allows our patients to share in that fun, because they’re kids first—an approach that reflects our Care Beyond the Bedside model and its focus on healing through play and connection.”
The celebration continued as Ranken Jordan’s patient experience team hosted a Cookies with Santa event, a new addition this year. Hospital staff from across departments led activity booths and holiday-themed programming, creating a festive afternoon for patients and their loved ones to enjoy the season together.
Santa’s annual visit is supported by the Maryland Heights Police Department and the Maryland Heights Fire Department; both organizations raise money to ensure all patients receive a gift.
Dryden emphasized that the success of the event is rooted in the local community.
“We’re incredibly thankful to our partners in Maryland Heights who show up year after year to make this day possible,” Dryden added. “For our patients, families, and staff, Santa’s visit is truly the most wonderful time of the year and a reminder of how much this community cares for each other.”
For more information about Ranken Jordan or to learn how to support the hospital this holiday season, visit rankenjordanfoundation.org.
