A family in Texas says their local Santa’s refusal to show any special kindness to their 13-month-old baby, who has a genetic development disorder, has been the cruel icing on the cake of a very difficult year.
Megan Self said she unhooked her son Caleb, who has a genetic brain and muscle disorder, from his breathing apparatus and other medical equipment, after waiting in line for a free picture with Santa Claus.
She said Santa stood up, took one photo with Caleb and then quickly handed off the child, KENS 5 reports.
“We’ve been through a lot this year, physically, mentally, emotionally, financially and everything. This was basically the icing on the cake,” said Self.
Caleb has been hospitalised 11 times since March and despite the countless setbacks, the family wanted him to experience sitting on Santa’s lap.
“We were trying to work with them so we can get that memory, get the picture of him on his lap and everything,” added Self.
The store has apologised to the family and offered them a free gift card but they declined, asking them to donate the equivalent to a charity close to their heart, the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation. In a statement the store said, “This is not something we feel great about”.
