Who:
Thomas Kemp, respiratory therapist, at WellSpan York Hospital

What:
For many families who have experienced the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), the holidays can be a time of mixed emotions – joy for the milestones they reached, but also memories of challenges they faced. Every year, one familiar face helps bring light, laughter and a little holiday magic to those families: Tom Kemp.

For several years, Tom has been an essential part of the NICU parent group’s annual holiday party, donning the iconic red suit and beard to become Santa Claus himself. But when Tom puts on that Santa suit, something extraordinary happens – he doesn’t just play Santa, he becomes him. His warm smile, kind heart and gentle spirit create a space where former NICU children and their families can experience the magic of the season in a way that feels safe, special and full of joy.

One by one, children climb onto Santa’s lap and Tom greets each with patience, compassion and genuine care. For many, this event provides the only opportunity to celebrate the holiday season in an environment that truly understands their journey.

“Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces and the joy in the parents’ eyes is the greatest gift of all. For a few moments, the worries are forgotten and the holiday magic is felt – and I’m grateful to be a small part of that,” Tom said.

After visiting with each child, Tom gathers the group together to read The Night Before Christmas, his voice rising and falling with the rhythm of the tale as children giggle and shout out the names of the reindeer.

Tom also makes a special visit to the NICU itself, ensuring that babies and families currently in care can experience a piece of the holiday magic. For parents who may have missed out on many of the “normal” firsts, a photo of their baby’s first holiday with Santa means the world.

“Tom truly is a gift to the NICU – he not only cares for the infants but brings a piece of normalcy to the families,” said Suzanne Johnson, care coordinator at WellSpan York Hospital’s NICU. “It reminds us of the purpose behind our work every day.”

Tom doesn’t do this for recognition – he does it from the heart. His kindness, patience and genuine love for these families have made him a treasured part of the NICU community.

Words to live by:
Being Santa in the NICU fills Tom with love and joy.

“I know that what we do as a NICU is special for the premature babies, but being able to make the parents happy for a moment in a special time of need is what we all enjoy.”