Firefighters sing Christmas carols to patients at Burn Institute

In a now-annual event, area firefighters stopped by the Burn ICU to provide a small lift for patients in the burn unit, in the form of Christmas carols!

Lauren Spink, the Burn Institute’s outreach coordinator, said the annual tradition uplifts spirits and fosters a sense of community during challenging times.

The firefighters are sometimes joined by their own family members, as well as the burn unit’s nurses who volunteer their time.

This gathering has become a highlight of the year, a beacon of hope and a reminder that recovery is not just physical but also emotional,” Spink said.

In recent years, the event has grown to include “Christmas Quilts for Recovery.” The group makes quilts throughout the year and then hands them out to patients during the caroling. This year, the team at Christmas Quilts for Recovery delivered 29 quilts to 13 patients.

“These quilts are not just blankets; they are symbols of comfort, care, and resilience,” Spink said.

The celebration extended beyond the ICU as firefighters and volunteers visited Davis 11 and Davis 12 floors, where additional patients under burn care were receiving treatment.

“I had the privilege of witnessing the moments these quilts were given out,” Spink said. “Patients’ faces lit up with joy, some were moved to tears of happiness. It was a powerful reminder of how small acts of kindness can make an immense difference in someone’s healing journey.”

Spink said the annual event is a testament to the strength of community and the importance of compassion in healthcare.

“It brings together firefighters, families, nurses, and patients in a shared celebration of recovery and hope,” she said. “We look forward to continuing this beautiful tradition for many years to come, ensuring that no burn survivor spends the holiday season without feeling supported and cherished.”