Former patient helps EMS service make morning miracle reality.
On Christmas morning, while Santa’s elves at Spirit EMS took a break from patient care, they embraced another important task: spreading holiday cheer to shut-ins at local hospitals and nursing homes.
Throughout December, the company collected stuffed animals from community members and employees to surprise hospital and nursing home patients with a special gift on Christmas morning. The dedicated team set out in their ambulances, bringing smiles to countless patients at facilities across western Ohio and eastern Indiana.
Spirit EMS President and CEO Brian K. Hathaway shared that the inspiration for this initiative came earlier in the year, aiming to revive a program that had been inactive for many years.
“Our team is always looking for unique ways to embody our motto, ‘Our Family Taking Care of Your Family,’” Hathaway said. “It’s heartwarming to know that as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, we can bring faith and hope to those who need it most, especially for those unable to leave the hospital or nursing home this Christmas. Knowing that someone cares can make a world of difference, and that’s what our compassionate team is all about.”
In addition to collecting stuffed animals, Spirit EMS also gathered canned food and dry goods to support local food pantries.
This initiative was part of a collaboration during four special days in December, where Greenville resident Steve Henninger served as Santa’s helper in collecting the stuffed animals from the community and employees.
Earlier in the year, Henninger had been transported by Spirit EMS after a severe fall that led to significant traumatic medical complications. Doctors had informed the 71-year-old Greenville man that he might never regain independence, let alone continue his beloved tradition of playing Santa, a role he had cherished since he was 25. Determined to recover, Henninger made a promise to Hathaway during one of his last ambulance rides in February, that he would return to help the company come Christmas time. “I will get better, and I will be your Santa Claus,” he assured Hathaway.
“That miracle came true, and Santa delivered in a way I never thought possible given his acute circumstances,” Hathaway reflected.
At the Spirit EMS Christmas party earlier this month, several EMS providers who cared for Henninger during his multiple hospital visits were honored as his inspiring story was shared with attendees.
“If it weren’t for the swift and compassionate care from everyone at Spirit EMS, I might not be here to play Santa again. I’m incredibly grateful for this amazing group of professionals,” Henninger expressed.
Featured photo: Greenville resident Steve Henninger, a helper to Santa since age 25, is presented the Star of Life award by Spirit EMS President CEO Brian K. Hathaway. Earlier this year Henninger suffered a traumatic fall and was told he’d likely never be able to play Santa again, but Henninger credits the swift actions and care of Spirit EMS on several occasions in February along with his strong will for his ability to again told the title of Santa in the Greenville community.
