Mayor Bloomberg arrived at the Bayside hospital to be greeted by Burton Grebin, MD, President  & CEO of St. Mary's, Clare Schulman, former Queens Borough President, and many smiling children and families anxious to make the Mayor's acquaintance.  Followed by his entourage of security personnel and dozens of reporters, as he walked around meeting and greeting children and their families and touring the hospital, Mayor Bloomberg was amazed at the obvious strength of many of St. Mary's patients and how they have all overcome great obstacles. He was equally impressed with the commitment and dedication of St. Mary's staff members.

The day became even more memorable when the Mayor received the opportunity to introduce a favorite holiday hero to the kids; Santa Claus. As Santa made his special entrance with a bag full of holiday presents, St. Mary's kids laughed and screamed with joy as the Mayor watched with excitement and pleasure. The Mayor then gathered with St. Mary's kids as they ripped open their presents.

Having heard of St. Mary's success with Nintendo Wii in rehabilitation therapy, Mayor Bloomberg was anxious to see it in action, so the kids thought they would share their favorite past-time hobby with the Mayor who gladly accepted the offer. Gathered by a circle of laughter, the Mayor eagerly took on the Wii challenge with his "little teachers" directing him. St. Mary's kids couldn't get enough, and the Mayor took his losses as a trooper.

It was a memorable Christmas for all and Mayor Bloomberg promises to return as he enjoyed spending time with some pretty cool kids who he deemed as the "real heroes." He also promises a Wii rematch.