December 11, 1998

Santa Claus – sometimes known as Richard Carson, director of Operations for the MGH Blood Donor Center – paid a visit to Ellison 17, 18 and the PICU last week to deliver teddy bears to pediatric patients. Each teddy bear was a special gift from donors who gave blood at the MGH Blood Donor Center.

"There is a prayer that says: 'Is anybody happier because you passed their way?' This is our way of making the kids happier and taking their minds off some of their problems," says Carson. "It also makes me feel great to see them smile."

MGHers, guests and visitors are encouraged to donate blood through Dec. 24 and adopt a teddy bear to be delivered to a pediatric patient. For more information, call 6-8165.