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Melania Trump Reads to Patients in Holiday Visit to Children’s National

The appearance continued a decades-old first-lady tradition at the Washington hospital.

First lady Melania Trump talks to children and their families at Children's National Hospital, Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Allison Robbert)
First lady Melania Trump reads "How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?" to children and their families at Children's National Hospital, Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Allison Robbert)
First lady Melania Trump hugs Faith Hinkle, a 5-year-old Children's National Hospital patient, Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Allison Robbert)
First lady Melania Trump departs after talking with patients and their families at Children's National Hospital, Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Allison Robbert)

Overview

  • The first lady read Mac Barnett’s “How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?” to about two dozen young patients and families in the hospital atrium.
  • She met privately with children in the Hematology and Oncology Unit after greeting those gathered for the reading.
  • She brought small gifts for patients, including Christmas tree ornaments stamped with “Be Best,” her child well-being initiative.
  • She wished the children strength and “lots of toys,” and said President Donald Trump was sending love and best wishes.
  • A costumed Santa slipped her a gold-colored coin inscribed “Believe” and “Merry Christmas,” reflecting a tradition first associated with Bess Truman.