Firemen Bring Special Christmas to Sick Children With Andrew's Mission Toy Drive

Santa made a special stop here at Covenant Children's Hospital to deliver toys to children and families who have to spend their Christmas in the Hospital.

Lubbock fireman and a fireman Santa brought the presents they collected through "Andrew's Toy Drive" to Covenant yesterday, and made it a special Christmas for some very special children.

"It was totally awesome. So far this is a great Christmas," said Christian Daniels, a patient at Covenant Children's Hospital.  

Christian Daniels and his family are spending their Christmas in the hospital. Christian has Leukemia, but a visit from fireman Santa and a tour of a fire engine helped make his Christmas special.

"I want to be a firefighter when I grow up," said Christian.

Christian was one of many sick children visited by Lubbock Fire fighters as part of Andrew's Mission Toy Drive, started in memory of a little boy named Andrew Villereal, who wanted nothing more than to be a firefighter and serve others.

"We've been able to show up this morning, a large group of firemen and their families and their children to be here at Covenant Children's Hospital to bring forth the donated toys that were donated graciously by the citizens of Lubbock," said Retired Deputy Fire Chief Lynn Smith.

Smith says the firemen have been shocked by the outpouring of support.

"I cannot tell you how many dollars all these toys amount to but it blesses my heart and I'm just kind of in awe at the success of Andrew's mission toy drive today," said Smith.

Smith says Andrew's mom is hoping to expand "Andrew's Mission" into a foundation to help families of sick kids pay their medical bills.

"Sasha would like to see in the future is a foundation started where money can be set aside and used to help the families that are going through that Andrew dealt with and his family dealt with for so many years," said Smith.

Smith says Andrew made a lasting impression on all the firemen who met him, and they're excited to continue his mission for years to come.

"We thought we were stepping out and being there for Andrew during his struggles here on earth, what we have learned and what each of these men will tell you today is Andrew left part of his heart in each one of us. Andrew is looking down smiling on us today, he is our little fire angel."

Smith said they were so impressed with the donations this year they are hoping to continue the toy drive for many years.