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Every year, Jane and Bob Mosher do something special as Christmas approaches. Jane, a registered nurse at Trinity Health’s NICU, with the help of her husband Bob, spread holiday cheer for the families in Trinity Health’s NICU with a tradition they’ve carried on for many years.

While the chill of winter surrounds the world outside, Bob fills the NICU with warmth and holiday cheer by dressing up as Santa and spreading joy to the families and children there.

The tradition, however, started with a visit to a classroom and a heartbreaking concern. “My daughter teaches first grade, and in 2014, we did a Santa visit to her classroom. One of the students was a sibling of a child in the NICU, and they were so worried that Santa was not going to remember that the baby was in the NICU,” said Jane.

That moment highlighted just how deeply children can care for their loved ones, especially when it comes to their siblings. It was also a reminder of the emotional weight the holidays can carry for families in difficult situations. Additionally, this moment served as an important reminder to Jane and Bob of how impactful their work can be and gave them a reason to continue the tradition.

While visiting families at the NICU, Santa will take photos with the babies in their cribs, and there is an opportunity to have family photos taken as well, making the moment as memorable as possible. According to Jane, the parents always get so excited to have Santa visit.

“The tradition started in my daughter’s classroom, and we still do that every year. Since then, there hasn’t been a discussion. He knows he needs to come to the NICU every year, too,” said Jane.

In addition to the visits from Santa, Trinity Health’s team at the NICU does their best to make it feel like the holiday season. From room decorations to festive wear, the NICU team ensures everyone can celebrate the holiday season and share smiles.

“Over the years in the NICU, we always make sure the kids have Christmas stockings. We have put kids in stockings to take pictures and dress them in Santa sleepers with festive backgrounds and special delivery name tags,” Jane said. She added, “Our team is wonderful about doing art projects. It’s sad when the families go home and don’t get to take the best gift with them.”

Even though Bob has years of Santa experience, he still gets a little nervous about making his yearly visits. However, when he suits up and gets in character, those nerves fade, and he is filled with joy.

The joy brought to the children and families of the NICU has also had a profound impact on Jane and Bob, shifting their perspective of the holiday season. “It has provided us with a meaningful purpose for continuing these visits,” said Jane.

With a family of 13 grandchildren, Jane and Bob continue to spread holiday cheer, even when they are at home with their loved ones and not making routine visits this time of year. Their commitment to bringing joy to others extends beyond the walls of the NICU, where their visits have become a cherished tradition. This dedication to spreading warmth and kindness, especially during the holidays, reflects their deep-rooted belief in the power of community and giving.