A Peoria man who has delivered presents to hospitalized children for two decades visited pediatrics wards at area hospitals Thurs.
Bill Turney, dressed in full Santa regalia, was joined by his wife Tracy, dressed as Mrs. Claus, their children and a whole entourage of “Hospital Helpers.” Turney says he considers this job his legacy.
“I think one of my sons will put on the red suit when I can’t do it anymore. But as far as taking it over, when I can’t do it no more, it’ll be my daughter, Chelsea,” Turney said.
Bill Turney started his Santa duties in 1996, when he gave patients football cards from his personal collection. This year, Turney says his Hospital Helpers collected $20,000 worth of toys.
When Turney and his helpers arrived on the pediatric floor at OSF Healthcare Children's Hospital of Illinois, the scene was lively with the sound of sleigh bells. The commotion was a welcome reprieve for children stuck in hospital rooms, as well as their parents.
Three-year-old Jahmari Somloar was admitted this week. Even though he is connected to IV’s and a respirator, Somloar laughs and sings “Jingle Bells” for his visitor donning the red suit. His grandmother Ruthie Gray and mom Latrice Robinson say it’s hard to see their baby connected to medical devices.
“He’s a sweet, very intelligent, little boy. And I love him very much. He’s so intelligent,” Gray said.
“Yes, he is. You’d think he’s faking it if you didn’t know..,” Robinson said.
Robinson says her son has sickle cell anemia. While she’s prepared for complications living with the disease, Robinson says it’s challenging around Christmas, particularly because they live in Bloomington.