LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Babies in Baptist Health Louisville’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit received a special visit from Santa Claus on Friday. This was the event’s first year, and it was driven by NICU nurses who went above and beyond.

“Nobody expects to be in the hospital for the holidays. Nobody really expects to have a baby in the NICU for the holidays, so we just wanted to spread a little Christmas joy,” said NICU Charge Nurse, Britney Richards.

If the babies couldn’t be wheeled out for Santa to hold, then he visited them in their rooms.

Mother Jennifer, whose last name isn’t used to protect privacy, watched as Santa held her little girl Averiana. Jennifer said her daughter was born one week early.

“It’s just a special moment for her to be here,” Jennifer said about the event.

The NICU nurses not only organized the event, but they also coordinated for each baby to be wrapped as a present. One of the nurses knitted hats for each baby to keep as a Christmas present.

Bella Baby Photography took holiday photos free of charge to commemorate each baby’s first visit with Santa.

Even though this was the event’s first year, every Christmas Eve volunteers donate stockings. The NICU babies are placed inside as a special treat for their parents. Another event to look forward to this holiday season.