Firefighter holiday cheer has brought joy to countless children over the years – but David Saunders, 50, says Moonlight as Santa Claus It’s been magical for him too.
For Saunders, who lives in Fairfax County, Virginia, playing Santa goes beyond tradition — it’s a deeply personal mission inspired by family and driven by a passion to spread joy, according to SWNS.
Saunders, a married father of five, started celebrating the holidays 16 years ago. At the time, her son, who was 6 at the time, had an illness that often brought him down. Children’s Hospital In Delaware
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“Every time we went, he would see all the sick kids,” she told SWNS.
“He would go and always say to me, ‘Man, I wish we could do something good for all these kids.’ And I’d say, ‘Okay, you figure out what you want to do, and we’ll try to do it.’
That wish turned into an unexpected calling for the father-son duo, who began dressing up as Santa and his elves to entertain young patients.
These days, Saunders makes about 100 to 150 home visits each year. He has also done some advertisements and commercials and a few Christmas films.
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“Honestly, I like to make people happy. I enjoy making people smile,” she told SWNS.
Saunders sees some children every year since they were infants.
Saunders makes about 100 to 150 home visits each year. He has also done some advertisements and commercials and a few Christmas films. (SWNS)
“I’m very happy to see them grow up,” he said. “You catch them as babies, and then you watch them grow.”
“Sometimes you think they don’t want you to come back this year, but their mom or dad always calls and says, ‘No, they don’t. Going through Christmas without you
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Although the role of Santa is generally jolly, Saunders admits it has its challenges.
“I really see something. sick child Or kids who really don’t have anything,” she said.
“I think all kids, even adults, want to believe in something, especially at Christmas,” Saunders told SWNS. (SWNS)
“It’s hard to look at their situation because you just want to be able to do something for them,” he continued.
“Sometimes it’s taxing on you, sometimes Mentally swollen”
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But he wouldn’t change a thing, he said — and after 30 years as a firefighter, he’s now trying to turn his side hustle into a full-time gig.
After 30 years as a firefighter, Saunders is now looking to turn his side hustle into a full-time gig. (SWNS)
“Being a firefighter has been a great job. Again, it’s one of those things that’s mentally and physically taxing, but I’ve had a good career,” he told SWNS.
“My body hurts, and I’m getting older, so it’s time to move on. I hope this business can grow a little more.”
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The magic of Christmas continues to inspire Saunders to bring joy to children and adults alike.
“I think all kids, even adults, want to believe in something, especially at Christmas.”