Eric Schmitt-Matzen, a 60-year-old man known for his striking resemblance to Santa Claus, often visits hospitalized children to bring them joy. One deeply emotional experience left a lasting impact on him. A nurse urgently called him about a gravely ill 5-year-old boy whose dying wish was to meet Santa. She insisted he come immediately, even without his Santa suit, as time was running out.
Eric arrived and sat on the boy’s bedside, gently comforting him. “Did I hear you’re going to miss Christmas?” he asked, before assuring the boy he wouldn’t and calling him his “favorite elf.” The child beamed with joy and opened a gift—a PAW Patrol toy—with great effort. Afterward, he hugged Eric tightly and asked, “How will I know where I’m going?” Eric told him, “Tell them you’re Santa’s number one elf.”
The boy passed away moments later in Eric’s arms. Overwhelmed by grief, Eric handed the child to his mother, who rushed in, heartbroken. The experience deeply shook Eric, making him question if he could continue playing Santa.
