WASHINGTON — WASHINGTON (AP) — Melania Trump On Friday, she visited the children's hospital and wished the patients strength and lots of toys from Santa Claus, continuing the long-standing tradition of the first ladies.
Two patients – an 11-year-old boy and a 5-year-old girl – escorted her into the festively decorated atrium of Children's National Hospital in the nation's capital. Trump sat in a big red chair in front of a tall Christmas tree and read: “How does Santa come down the chimney?” Mac Barnett for about two dozen child patients and other spectators.
Closing the book, she wished the children strength and “lots of toys.”
“I'm sure Santa will visit you all this Christmas and bring you lots of toys, so I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,” she said. “I wish you a lot of strength and love.”
President Donald Trump “Also sending love and best wishes,” she said.
The First Lady spoke individually with children in the audience before heading to a private appointment with patients in the hospital's hematology and oncology department.
Santa Claus in the room slipped her a gold coin with the words “Believe” and “Merry Christmas” written on it. She brought gifts for patients, including Christmas tree decorations emblazoned with “Be the Best,” the name of her child welfare initiative.
The hospital visit continued a holiday tradition started by Bess Truman, who served as first lady from 1945 to 1953.
