OHIO — For many children, Christmas is one of the happiest times of the year.
But it can be a little challenging for those who have to spend it in the hospital. That’s why first responders in southwest Ohio are doing something special to brighten their spirits.
Dozens of police cars, motorcycles and other first responder vehicles filled a parking lot in preparation for the second annual Operation Santa’s Sleigh, a statewide event put on by Light Ohio Blue, other police agencies and local first responders.
“We know these times are not always the easiest for everyone, but you know what, there are some that have to spend their Christmas in the hospital,” said Cincinnati Police Sgt. Anthony Mitchell, the coordinator of the southwest Ohio event.
Every year, a caravan of first responders pass by Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, the Ronald McDonald House and other hospitals to show off their lights.
“If we can just kind of alter that just for a little bit, just to put those smiles on those faces and they forget what they’re actually facing, hey we’ve done our job,” he said.
Connor Horne, 9, who’s been staying at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Cincinnati for three months now, was ecstatic to see the first responders arrive.
“It’s really exciting,” said Connor.
He and his family joined more than a dozen others to watch the caravan of vehicles pass by.
Although he liked all the cars, he did have a favorite.
“I like the police cars because they are very, very cool,” he said.
In addition to the police vehicles, there were firetrucks.
Connor said they were yet another exciting part of the show. And while he won’t make it home in time for Christmas, this was enough to warm his heart.
“It was the best Christmas ever and I thought the police cars were the absolute best,” said Connor.
