Isabel and Santa (aka Dr. Hutter!)

In 2005, 73 children received a gift selected specially for them, plus a glorious handmade stocking for every child.

A delightful surprise from the event was the quality performance as Santa pulled off by Dr. John Hutter, longtime head of the pediatric oncology department at UMC. He owns his very own Santa suit and has a real love for the role -- at his entrance he ran through the room with his arms up in the air, jingling bells. If Dr. Hutter ever gets tired of oncology he has a second career as Santa, waiting in the wings!

A cancer diagnosis throws the entire family into crisis, and holiday times can be especially difficult. Candlelighters offers this holiday party to give joy in this difficult time. We are so grateful to the many people who helped make this event possible.