It was a joy-based day south of downtown Los Angeles yesterday. More than 1300 children received toys at the Los Angeles Orthopedic Hospital (@OrthoHospital). This annual event of generosity is spearheaded by the hospital and the LAPD SWAT team every holiday season. Many, many generous people and companies contributed toys, time and love.

Santa was on hand– apparently he gave Rudolph the day off–because the jolly dude flew in by chopper. The kids loved it — hey the grown-ups, including this one– did too! Then Santa did a sneak maneuver and switched into a LAPD SWAT vehicle. That’s what I call making a dramatic entrance! (Wish I had the video to show you– but my darn Ipad froze.) But at the core of this event is the joy of children… and my camera recorded that emotion without interruption. Over 100 families from the Figueroa Corrider were present. All families with high need. Some of the children suffer from musculoskeletal disorders. Some children made their way to Santa with the help of a walker or a wheel chair. Everyone present felt honored to be there. Lots of emotion here. (Please watch the videos they are pure love!)

This collaboration between SWAT and the hospital has been going on for more than two decades. It was one of the pet projects of SWAT Officer Randall Simmons, the first LAPD SWAT Member to be killed in the line of duty. Simmons was an icon in law enforcement for his work as a police officer, but also as a marvelous human being who gave back to the communities he patrolled. The “Oh Toys! Oh Joy! Toy Drive” was so successful that there were extra toys to be shared with additional low income families who are struggling during this rugged recession. Some of them will go to “Glory Kids” a church group founded by Simmons. Nearly four years after his tragic death, the sound of children’s laughter echoes through the inner city.. and that laughter can be traced to Randy Simmons.

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