'Candy Cane Wishes' brings Christmas joy to young patients at Texas Children's Hospital

HOUSTON - The halls of Texas Children's Hospital transformed into a magical Candy Cane Lane, offering young cancer patients a chance to momentarily forget their treatments and immerse themselves in the joy of the holiday season. The annual event, known as Candy Cane Wishes, allows these brave children to receive special gifts tailored just for them, creating moments of pure joy and excitement.

"This is for your siblings, and this is for you," a volunteer says, handing out gifts to the children. The smiles on their faces say it all. Eleven-year-old Savana, who is battling lymphoma, beams with happiness, her mind far from her medical struggles. "This is awesome, we really appreciate it," her mom expresses, grateful for the momentary escape.

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Santa's helpers, donning festive elf hats, work diligently to gather wish lists from the patients to ensure that each child's dreams come true. "Merrrry Christmas! Have fun with your new toys!" they cheer, as they deliver the carefully selected presents.

Eight-year-old Joseph, who is fighting a rare type of leukemia known as AML, is overjoyed when he receives his gifts. "It looks cool. I love this one," he exclaims, climbing right into the bag of toys. His excitement is infectious, and his father's emotions are palpable.

"It helps us and makes us feel happy, like at home, to have Christmas with him here. Thanks so much!" Joseph's dad says, tears in his eyes. Joseph's imagination takes flight as he declares, "I'm going to the North Pole to see his deer," laughing with delight and hiding in his large Santa's bag.

Meanwhile, five-year-old Alynna, who is being treated for liver cancer, finds joy in playing make-believe. "You can start baking! Are you ready to bake some cookies on Christmas?" a volunteer asks, as Alynna nods eagerly, opening her toy mixer. "A Barbie car, open it Mommy!!!" she encourages. "Seeing all these presents they gave her, she's ready to play with them! I'm really happy they provide these at a time when we're not home and able to get everything that she might want at the moment, so really grateful," says Ana Lopez, Alynna's mom, expressing her heartfelt appreciation.

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Candy Cane Wishes at Texas Children's Hospital is a testament to the power of kindness and generosity, bringing smiles and joy to young patients and their families during the holiday season. There are many annual toy drives to make sure these precious children get the celebration they deserve. This particular round was largely funded by Ceci Cares, the Houston Texans, Beaux Strong, Hastens, along with many others.

Here's more information about the event: Texas Children's Hospiral Candy Cane Lane