Santa brings to cheer to the Children Hospital of Augusta

Wednesday, December 25, 2019

News 12 at 11 O'Clock

AUGUSTA, GA (WRDW/WAGT) -- "The plan was a big Christmas morning at home," said mom Kara Collins.

Kara never imagined her holiday like this.

"I thought it was just the cramps," said Avery Collins.

Avery later found out it was much more serious -- it was appendicitis.

"I was like, 'Holy shegenmoly. I have to get surgery,' and I started crying," said Avery.

Kara said they tried to make the best of their Christmas.

"We pretty much tried to make the best of it this morning," Kara said. "We had all of her Christmas that she would have gotten at home here. The whole family is here."

There was another special guest there, too.

"I was like, 'Whoa! Santa,'" said Avery.

Like any other kid, Avery had many wishes on her list, but Santa wanted to give her one -- a speedy recovery.

"It actually put a smile on her face," Kara said

Santa brought dozens of other smiles, too. There were nearly 100 children spending their holiday in the hospital.

"They were right on top of everything," Kara said.

Santa wanted to spread some cheer by delivering toys -- all donated by local families.

It was a chance for kids to enjoy the holiday instead of focusing on their illness.

"She is getting better," Kara said. "It's not the same Christmas we would have had at home, though."

Kara says she is thankful for her daughter's road to recovery.

Perhaps the gift of kindness helped with the journey.