The holiday spirit radiated across the fourth floor of the Medical Center Pavilion as Texas Children’s team members gathered for the second annual Employee Tree Stroll. The moment they stepped into the space, our team members were surrounded by a wonderland of creative trees that brought smiles to their faces.
Designed through J&J Flooring’s Helping Hands™ initiative, the two-foot decorated trees reflected the imagination and care of designers and architects from across Greater Houston. From playful pop-culture favorites to nostalgic childhood themes, each tree was thoughtfully crafted for patients spending the holiday season in the hospital.
Talented carolers from the Houston Grand Opera filled the air with seasonal melodies, while the sweet scent of hot cocoa drifted through the Pavilion. Employees strolled from tree to tree, snapping photos, sharing laughs and soaking in the festive atmosphere. After the stroll, the trees were delivered to patients’ rooms, offering children and families a warm holiday touch during their stay.
The event’s impact was reflected not only in the decorations but also in the voices of those who make moments like these possible. Leaders and staff shared why the event holds special meaning for the hospital.
“This is a tremendous event for us and one of the best things we do all year,” said Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Dan DiPrisco. “We’re so grateful to J&J Flooring for providing 249 trees for our patients to enjoy in their rooms. No one wants to be in the hospital over the holidays, and being able to pick out a tree helps make their stay feel a bit more like home.”
Child Life Activity Coordinator and lead organizer of the event Nelly Woodward said, “This event is so special because it allows our patients to have a little space of their own to continue holiday traditions with their families, even while at our hospital.”
“I loved seeing the variety of trees created for our patients,” Perioperative Nurse Sophia Bailey added. “Each one is a little spark of joy that helps brighten their holiday season.”
The Employee Tree Stroll is more than a holiday event. It’s a meaningful pause in a busy season and a chance to connect, reflect and celebrate the joy of giving. Most of all, it’s a reminder of the hospital’s core mission: caring for patients and families, especially when it matters most.
View the photos capturing the wonderland of trees below!
