Photo courtesy Methodist Health System.
A North Texas Santa is showing gratitude to Methodist Dallas staff after his wife received the gift of a life-changing transplant.
Thomas McDonald, better known around Christmastime as Santa Thomas, just celebrated his 49th anniversary with his loving wife, Lisa.
Lisa was fighting stage four liver disease when she chose Methodist Dallas’ transplant team. Vichin Puri, MD, FACS, director of surgical oncology at Methodist Dallas, performed her liver transplant at the end of April. While Lisa recovered from surgery, her husband spread Christmas cheer through the hospital halls while sporting a full Santa beard and a golfing get-up.
“You all have saved the life of my precious bride,” Thomas said. “I can never repay what you all have given me.”
Dr. Puri commended Thomas not just for his seasonal cheer, but for his unwavering support for Lisa throughout her health journey.
“He has always been there at her side, which made the difference. She couldn’t have done it without him, and he’s doing it all for her,” Dr. Puri said. “I think she’s done well because he’s at her side.”
The couple showed their appreciation with a special Christmas in July “thank you” last Friday. The hospital invited staff to mingle with Santa, snap photos, grab a warm cookie, and listen to a string quartet performing Christmas classics.
“Hosting Christmas in July is but a tiny token of my love for all that Methodist has given me,” Thomas said. “Everyone there at Methodist Dallas, from the surgeons all the way to the housekeepers, are a vital part of our family.”
