MIAMI — In December of each year, all children with sickle cell disease between the ages of 5 and 12 and their siblings in the same age range are invited by the Miami-Dade County Chapter of the Sickle Cell Disease
Association of America to “Breakfast with Santa.”
Each child receives a gift. Santa arrives after the children have had a sumptuous breakfast. The children sing Christmas carols, are entertained by clowns and have their faces painted. Although many of the gifts are donated, the facility and food are provided at discount, and elves, clowns and Santa donate their services and goods. Any additional expenses are borne by the Miami-Dade County Chapter of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America.
Former board member Rhonda Carey initiated the event in the 1980s. During the Dec. 17 event this year at Jackson Memorial Hospital, Crystal Pittman, president of Top Ladies and leader of its affilliated Top Teens, again provided food baskets, and the Top Teens served as Elves/Santa's Helpers.
Photo: COURTESY OF Sickle Cell Disease Association
Imani Johnson
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