Santa visits smallest of babies at MVH

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - Every child deserves a visit from The Jolly Old Elf himself, even the smallest, most frail of newborns.

Santa Claus made an early stop at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Miami Valley Hospital Tuesday evening.

He visited with 45 babies and their families to share the joy of the season.

The NICU staff arranges for Santa to drop by each year as many families have a long stay in the unit.

Elaina and Ethan's parents say it's a welcomed visit.

"They do a lot of great things here at the Valley and really help you as far as dealing and coping and making you feel more at home, so that was really nice to have Santa  because obviously, it's these babies first Christmas whether they're at home or not," said Maureen Patrick, new mom.

Elaina and Ethan were born September 30.  Mom's biggest wish this year is take her children home soon.