Special guest cheers hospitalized children

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - A special guest made his way through two local hospitals as a part of McDonald's Joy of Giving campaign.

Ronald McDonald visited IU Health Arnett and St. Elizabeth East Thursday morning.

It's not everyday you see Ronald McDonald roaming the halls of IU Health Arnett's hospital in Lafayette.

"We get to go visit some kids, we have the joy of giving going on it is the season you know," said Ronald McDonald.

He's was there to pass out gifts, which include digital cameras and toys,aspecial holiday surprise to the children and families of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

New mother Dixie Gallipo wasn’t expecting THIS kind of morning.

"No, not at all. That was very shocking,” said Dixie Gallipo, parent.

"I had twins on Friday and they were born five weeks premature and they're having a little issue with some weight and some breathing issues. And they're taking care of them in there until they're well to come home with us,” said Gallipo.

McDonald's Resturants of Central Indiana wanted to put a smile on the faces of children and families.

Dealing with sick children can be difficult at times. But for a brief moment, there was joy during this special time of year.

“For somebody to come to me with a gift like that for the holiday season, when we have to spend it in here, means a lot,” said Gallipo.