WATCH: Santa sees off the Grinch at St John’s Community Hospital

Santa was on hand to see off the Grinch at St John’s Community Hospital in Sligo in a special Christmas video.

Residents and their families gathered for the annual Christmas party at St John’s recently, which was captured in a special video.

St John’s Community Hospital is a central facility in Older Persons Services providing residential care to 82 residents, 27 short stay patients and day hospital services two days per week to the people of Sligo and surrounding areas. 

Each residential unit is hosting their own Christmas celebration where residents, their families and friends will enjoy food, fun and musical entertainment. 

Local celebrity Tabby Callaghan is joining one celebration and no doubt will have the Garden Room rocking! 

The hospital has been converted into a Winter Wonderland, with a competition underway among all departments who will have the most creative Christmas door. Residents will choose a winner on December 18 - which is also the Christmas jumper day with residents, staff and visitors encouraged to wear festive clothing.

As well as this St John’s is delighted to welcome a number carol singer groups, bands and schools in the coming days with children from Carraroe, Calry ,St Joseph's and Grange schools, and the amarillo choir and Sligo Concert band all scheduled  to showcase their musical talents to resident and staff.

St John’s Community Hospital registered for Care Packs, a heart-warming initiative which will result in all residents receiving a Christmas package from people all over Ireland who wish to send a parcel to a resident within a nursing unit. 

Parcels are arriving daily and will bring a special joy to residents to know someone has taken the time and effort to send a parcel and card this Christmas.

Residents are also planning to attend the local Christmas markets to enjoy the festive atmospheres and support local businesses for Christmas shopping.  

Residents had a great time at the party. One resident said ‘’Myself and family thoroughly enjoyed. We appreciate the effort staff put in and I thank them very much.”

Another resident said “I loved being with family and enjoyed the party and music.’’

A third resident said‘’ I loved the party. It was very well put together. The music and food was super.  I got a good laugh from Santa and the team.’’

Nicola Scanlon, Director of Nursing, St John’s Community Hospital said “We compiled this video to showcase the person centred atmosphere and staff efforts this Christmas in St John’s Community Hospital where residents are cared for, supported and valued within an environment that promotes their health and wellbeing. 

“St John's Community Hospital is striving to ensure Christmas 2023 is a memorable one for residents and staff, as the magic of Christmas is not about your presents but in your presence!”