Island Health Workers Step Up After Santa Helicopter Tradition Ends

The end of a cherished holiday tradition has prompted health care teams on Vancouver Island to enhance their efforts in bringing joy to young patients. After two decades of Santa Claus visiting pediatric units via helicopter, the program has concluded as BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) transitions to a new air ambulance provider.

For 20 years, Santa flew aboard a Helijet air ambulance, making stops at pediatric units across six hospitals in British Columbia, including Victoria General Hospital and Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. This annual event provided significant cheer to children spending the holidays in hospital.

Brian Twaites, paramedic public information officer for BCEHS, expressed gratitude for the tradition: “The Santa flights have been a beloved B.C. tradition that brought holiday cheer to hospitalized children on Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland.” He acknowledged the contributions of Helijet and the dedicated teams at BCEHS and the hospitals that facilitated these flights each year.

The discontinuation of the Santa helicopter visits has led Island Health to seek alternative ways to support children and families during the holiday season. A spokesperson stated, “We know that being in the hospital over the holidays can be especially hard, as children and families may miss out on traditions and time together at home.” To mitigate this, care teams and child life specialists are planning special activities to brighten the spirits of patients and their families.

In addition to these efforts, BCEHS staff, including paramedics and dispatch personnel, will continue to engage in various holiday gatherings and charitable initiatives throughout the province. Twaites mentioned, “This includes a special visit from Santa this month to BC Children’s Hospital, organized in partnership between BCHES and BC Children’s Hospital.”

While the Santa helicopter visits will be missed, the commitment of health care workers to uplift young patients remains strong. With new initiatives in place, the spirit of the holidays will continue to shine in hospitals across British Columbia, ensuring that even those unable to leave for home can experience moments of joy during the festive season.