The Santa Story
The Santa Story is about one man’s unexpected journey back to Vietnam, and how he found a way to give something back — one child, one present and one smile at a time.
What we gathered
Vietnam
Photographs and memories from his relationship with Vietnam.
The Santa Suit
The suit, hat, beard and other objects that became part of his Christmas identity.
The Gifts
Photographs of presents being collected, organised and wrapped.
The Volunteers
The people behind the scenes — wrapping gifts, coordinating events and preparing for hospital visits.
Christmas at the Hospital
Photographs of the Christmas events and the children receiving their presents.
The Little Moments
Smiles, laughter, handshakes, hugs and the small interactions that make the story memorable.
He first came to Vietnam as a young American soldier.
Decades later, he returned to a very different Vietnam — and found a new way to be part of its community.
Every Christmas, he became Santa.
Together with a small group of volunteers, he gathered, wrapped and delivered presents to children in hospitals across Ho Chi Minh City, bringing something that could be difficult to find in a hospital room: laughter, surprise and a little bit of Christmas magic.