First Lady Melania Trump took her place in front of a decorated Christmas tree at the Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., to read patients a story and send them a holiday greeting.
“It is wonderful to be here. This is one of my favorite events during the holiday time, and I’m very excited and looking forward to reading a book, ‘Oliver the Ornament,’ and this is the series that I started to read a few years ago,” Trump said Tuesday.
She added, “It’s by Todd Zimmerman who is with us today. Thank you so much, Todd. I want to say hello to all of the patients in their rooms, that they are watching us… I’m thinking of you all, stay strong and well, and merry Christmas and happy holidays.”
Watch her comments below:
Trump explained to the Associated Press in a statement why the event is so special to her.
“During each of my visits to Children’s National, I have felt the warmth that these brave children bring, seen the joy in their eyes and the smiles on their faces,” Trump said.
She continued, “It always reminds me that the spirit of Christmas is truly alive in each and every one of these courageous children.”
Every year I cherish my visit to @ChildrensNatl to read a holiday story to the children & meet with the dedicated & inspiring healthcare professionals. This will be my 4th holiday visit there & I look forward to spending time again with so many brave children & their families. pic.twitter.com/oHWRAW368d
— Melania Trump 45 Archived (@FLOTUS45) December 15, 2020
Kurt Newman, the president and CEO of the hospital, expressed his appreciation for the first lady’s willingness to prioritize the visit amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
“With so many holiday events disrupted this year, it is particularly special that the First Lady and her team made this annual holiday visit a priority,” Newman said, according to a White House pool report.
He went on, “Mrs. Trump has our deep gratitude for joining every First Lady since Bess Truman in bringing holiday cheer to children who are hospitalized and can’t be home during this special time of the year.”