Loma Linda>>It would seem quite unusual to be celebrating the Christmas holiday halfway into the year, but for many, Christmas couldn’t come any sooner, especially during a time of need. This year the American and Sons of American Legion (SAL), as well as the Ronald McDonald House (RMH), hosted a time of holiday spirit to the many young children at the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital during their 10th annual celebration of “Christmas in July”.
Many of these children suffer from terminal illnesses and endure numerous amounts of medical treatment. Many of them may not get to experience the joys of this upcoming holiday season. By inviting the community to gather and support the children’s hospital, many of the children were able to enjoy the festivities as well as enjoy the fresh, warm air of the summer season.
Classic cars and motorcycles paraded down Barton Road as part of the event, and gathered at the Ronald McDonald House parking structure off Anderson Street in Loma Linda. Families and friends joined the festivities and were even able to take pictures with costumed characters such as SpongeBob Square Pants, Disney princesses, “Summer Klaus”, and many more. The children’s faces gleamed at the many festival venues, and they were given gifts to add to the holiday spirit.
Unwrapped toys were given by local community members as well as the event sponsors. A generous donation of $5,000 was given by the American Legion and Sons of American Legion-Squadron 155 to the Ronald McDonald House.
The American and Sons of American Legion are known for servicing military families and the community through fundraising and donations; many of their proceeds are given to help others who are in need. The Legions are composed of military members and their male descendants, who strive to better the communities by helping their fellow veterans and other community members.
Kenneth Le Bron, the Commander of Squadron 155 in Colton, has been with the organization for 45 years, and is a 5th generation military member in his family.
“Today, we are honoring all the children at the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital,” said Le Bron. “Many of these children are sick and don’t get to see Christmas.”
Le Bron had recalled a past family that attended the annual event last year. The young boy, who was a patient at the children’s hospital, was very ill but was able to celebrate with his father the “Christmas in July” event. Later, within the month, Squadron 155 received a phone call from the young boy’s father saying that he had passed away. For many, this annual event touches the lives of others and comes at a time when the support of the community is needed.
Through this event, The American and Sons of American Legion, and the Ronald McDonald House have helped many children at the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital by giving them the experience of Christmas during the middle of the year. Efforts from the community and organizations allow these children to feel as if they can celebrate any holiday during any time of the year.