SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Aubree Morgan loves Christmas almost as much as she loves her favorite show, "Bluey."
But this 8-year-old didn't expect to spend her Christmas in HSHS St. John's Children's Hospital.
"Aubree was diagnosed in October with relapsed leukemia," said her mother, Kelsie Morgan. "Being here at any time is difficult. But during the holiday season, you're missing out on some family traditions that you're used to."
The Morgan family may not be opening gifts under the tree this year — but that doesn't mean Aubree is going without. Donations from around central Illinois have stocked "Santa's Workshop" with a wonderland of toys — all at no cost to parents thanks to Michael McGraw and the McGraw family. Those toys are then wrapped by volunteers like Peggy Goone.
"I just hope they remember the happy times and remember there was some good to come out of being in the hospital during this season," she said. "There are a lot of people around the community who care for them and wish them the best."
Aubree Morgan opening a gift at HSHS St. John's Children's Hospital.
Here, gifts just mean more as they help families like Aubree's unwrap hope.
"This is the second time she's had to go through this," said Kelsie Morgan fighting back tears. "She has a smile on her face every time we're here."
Aubree's smile won't fade — thanks to the kindness of strangers.
Copyright 2023. WAND TV. All rights reserved.
