On Friday, a Georgia fire department undertook an unusual Christmas tradition.
In place of decking the halls, the men and women of the Sandy Springs Fire Department (SSFD) link up with Santa, and rappel down the walls of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to surprise infirm kids who can’t leave their rooms.
The event is now in its third year, and this time they brought along Superman and Spiderman to ensure it was a moment the children would never forget.
In 2018, the department thought about doing something that would inspire the pediatric patients, since Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta serves the whole city, but was located so close to their fire station. Rappelling from the rooftop needed a bit of planning, but fortunately Department Section Chief Kyle Sweeney got in touch with the right people, and in 2022, it finally got off the ground, or rather, off the roof.
“It’s a simple interaction, but it has a huge impact,” Sweeney told GNN in an emailed statement.
“For many of us, it’s one of the most rewarding things we get to do all year. Firefighters are used to showing up on people’s worst days, so having the opportunity to bring joy instead is incredibly powerful. It reminds us why we chose this career in the first place.”
One of the team, Cody Minter, took part for the first time this year. His son was diagnosed with cancer in 2024, and though his treatment at the hospital mercifully didn’t last long enough for the family to see the event, they got to see the impact it had on the little patients when they saw Santa, or a local sports mascot, a firefighter, or national guardsmen, appear outside the window.
“Hearing all the stories about it and the impact and joy it brought to the children made me want to be a part of this event with SSFD,” Minter told GNN. “The amazing team at the Children’s hospital we like to call family inspired me to do more. Their dedication and the love they show do not go unnoticed. It inspired me to give back in any way I can.”
On December 19th, heroes real and mythical alike latched the ropes onto their harnesses and descended to the glass windows of the children’s rooms, waving, high-fiving through the glass.
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Atlanta was fortunately far south enough so as not to bother Superman there in his tights on the windy rooftop—though he could have asked the impeccably-dressed Santa Claus for his warm winter coat.
“Those moments are unforgettable,” Sweeney said after the event. “You can see the surprise turn into excitement almost instantly. The high fives through the glass, the smiles, and the laughter make all the effort worth it.”
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“One of the most memorable parts is bringing Santa along and walking through the hospital afterward to deliver gifts. Many of the gifts are donated by Sandy Springs citizens, which makes it even more special.”
“Over the past three years, seeing this event grow with support from organizations like the Georgia State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Georgia Sprinkler Association, Cherokee Fire Department, Atlanta Fire Department, Georgia Power, Mileshko Photography, The Atlanta Braves. The Atlanta Falcons, and The Atlanta Hawks has been incredible. Every year, it becomes more meaningful, and every year, the reactions from the kids remind us that even small moments can make a lasting difference.”
WATCH a bit of the action below…
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