2016 Delta Air Lines Santa Express

Santa's First Class Ticket and Baggage Claim Tag

As I reflect on the opportunity that I had yesterday, I have gone through several emotions.  I told myself that I would try to keep it together during the festivities and surprisingly, I did.  I volunteered to help take the children from the Shriners Hospital for Children and the Primary Children’s Hospital, both located in Salt Lake City, to the North Pole.  These beautiful children are the reason that Delta Air Lines has this event. It wasn’t until I got home last night that my emotions really hit me.

Love my amazing co-workers!

I had never done an event like this and have been wanting to for quite some time.  I have two angels that have inspired me to give back in any way that I can.  I have a beautiful niece, just a few weeks shy of her 4^th birthday, that was born with Down Syndrome, and a handsome, 3 ½ -year old nephew that was born with FPIES (Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome) and IgE (Immunoglobulin E).  I have learned so much since their births…how to love more deeply, not to ever judge, how to use sign language to communicate; greater awareness to deadly food allergies…the list goes on.  I’ve also watched how much their parents do, how their lives have changed and how they do everything in their power to make these precious lives as normal as possible.  Some days are difficult but they power through.  I admire them so much.

Passing goodies out to our passengers

So, as soon as I heard about the Santa Express, I wanted to be a part of it.  I was excited that I was one of the ten flight attendants working this flight!  We quickly decorated the interior of the plane with garlands and ornaments.  As soon as the families arrived at the gate to depart to the North Pole, the children and their families took photos with elves and Santa’s helpers (our crew).  Once onboard and closed up, we taxied around the airport for about 45 minutes making our way to the North Pole.  We passed out treats and walked through the aisles singing Christmas carols.  There was so much joy with everyone singing together. 

Pure joy

Arriving at the North Pole!

Santa and Mrs. Claus waving to the passengers as we pull into the hangar.

Santa greeting the little ones at the "North Pole"

We spoke with families and listened to their stories and struggles…from a 6-year-old boy currently going through chemo, to little ones with cerebral palsy and down syndrome.  The parents were grateful that we were doing this event.  We heard so many heartfelt “thank yous.”  One of my friends that was working the flight said that she ran into a family as she was leaving the airport.  A man shouted out to her “thanks!”  She didn’t realize at first that he was talking to her.  After she realized, she ran over to him and he said that his daughter said, “it was the best day of their lives.”  She told him that it was our honor to be there and I totally agree.  I am grateful.  Grateful that I was able to be a part of this…that I could bring joy or smiles to someone for one day…to make them forget their pain or struggles.  I am grateful that I work with an amazing group of people.  I am proud to work for an awesome company that puts together and supports community events.  This was truly a beautiful experience and one that I will never forget.

I am uploading photos to my website from this event.  I took a lot and only have a few up, so please be sure to keep checking for updates!  Click on the link below to view the photos...
http://www.digitalwonderlandphotography.com/Events/Delta-Air-Lines-Santa-Express/