US: Biden, first lady visit hospitalised kids on Christmas Eve

It’s long-standing tradition for first ladies to visit Children’s National Hospital at Christmastime, but Joe Biden’s visit on Friday was a surprise

By AP

Published: Fri 24 Dec 2021, 8:20 PM

Last updated: Fri 24 Dec 2021, 8:26 PM

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden brought some Christmas Eve cheer to hospitalised children who aren’t well enough to go home for holidays.

It’s long-standing tradition for first ladies to visit Children’s National Hospital at Christmastime, but Joe Biden’s visit on Friday was a surprise. It marked the first time that a sitting president had joined the fun, the White House said.

The Bidens are set to help a group of children making lanterns as part of a winter craft project. Jill Biden will also sit by the Christmas tree and read “Olaf’s Night Before Christmas” to the kids. Video of her reading will also be shown in patient rooms throughout the hospital.

Advertising

ALSO READ:

US: Biden says a Trump candidacy would motivate second term run

Jill Biden says being first lady is ‘harder than I imagined’

US: Bidens welcome new puppy Commander and cat; Major to stay with friends after biting incidents

The Walt Disney Co. provided copies of the book for each patient so they can follow along with the first lady, the White House said. Each book includes a White House bookmark designed by her office.

The annual tradition of a hospital visit by the first lady dates to Bess Truman, who served in the role from 1945-1953.