Houston hospital offers child patients holiday magic beyond the medicine

Houston — Eight-year-old William Wilson will spend Christmas in a hospital room fighting a blood disorder.

Surrounded by machines and tubes is not what a child dreams of for the holidays.

But at Houston's Texas Children's Hospital, there's a magic beyond the medicine, as decorations help transform the hospital's 16th floor into what looks more like a high-end holiday store.

Themed Christmas trees at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston. December 2023.  / Credit: CBS News
Themed Christmas trees at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston. December 2023. / Credit: CBS News

There's a Barbie-themed tree, a railroad-themed tree, a Houston Astros-themed tree, a Yoda tree and sweet treats-themed tree.

"It's so pretty," patient Marixsa Elizondo said. "It's so beautiful and colorful!"

  / Credit: CBS News
/ Credit: CBS News


Each child can choose one special theme for their room, decorated by people who won't even meet them.

 / Credit: CBS news
/ Credit: CBS news

Wilson went with a Hot Wheels theme.

"I love it," Wilson said.

Much more than a Christmas tree, it's the stability of tradition at an uncertain time.

 / Credit: CBS News
/ Credit: CBS News

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