Firefighters Bring Christmas Magic To Girl In Hospice Care

RIDGE, NY — When the Ridge Fire Department's Company One set out on their annual Santa Parade this weekend, they made one very special stop that brought Christmas magic to a girl facing her greatest challenge.

The festive firefighters stopped to see Grace Feeney, 16, who, despite obstacles, faces life with a bright smile and boundless joy, her parents Tracey and Todd Feeney said.

"It's taken some time to wipe the tears from our eyes," Todd Feeney said. "We cannot thank you enough for coming to see our daughter Grace. Most years she would come out to see Santa, but since she started hospice she can’t go out too often, especially in the cold. Santa coming in her room to see her was a memory we will never forget. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Merry Christmas!"

Feeney said his daughter Grace was born premature, but was holding her own. Then, he said, "Due to some mistakes made in the hospital, she was terribly injured. She has cerebral palsy, a VP shunt and she’s had numerous brain surgeries. And she has terrible seizures — upwards of 30 a month."

Their girl started hospice in April, Feeney said. "There was really nothing more they could do for her at the hospital. Because of her spinal issues she’s beginning to have trouble breathing, and she was put on oxygen."

Now, Grace has at-home hospice care, he said.

"Her nurse Valerie was her aide at school 14 years ago, and became a nurse just to work with Grace," Feeney said.

Because despite her physical challenges, Grace's pure spirit spreads joy, he said. She's well-loved by the teachers from the Longwood School District who come to homeschool her during the week.

"Grace's cortically blind, and cannot speak. But all she does is smile and give love to everyone that she meets. You will never meet a happier, more smiley person," Feeney said.

Santa's visit left a lifelong impression not just on Grace, but on her parents, who were deeply moved, Feeney said.

"We were just truly touched and thrilled that they would stop and take time out to see us when they have to see the entire district," he said. "About 15 firemen and police and Santa Claus showed up at the house. One of my nurses was here along with her little daughter Lorelei. It became a crying fest."