Hospitals Have No Chimneys

Hospitals Have No Chimneys: Thirty Years as a Hospital Santa is a heartwarming memoir that is as timely as it is inspiring, a memoir that follows Paul Liewer’s transformative journey as he assumes the role of Santa Claus, spreading joy and laughter in the quiet confines of hospital rooms. Co-authored by Greg Martin, the book narrates Paul's remarkable mission, spanning three decades and 16,000 patients, capturing the highs and lows of this extraordinary odyssey. The narrative unfolds with a poignant question: “Can a smile truly brighten the darkest moments?” Paul's experiences as a hospital Santa provide a resounding affirmation. The book skillfully captures the depth of human emotion, exploring moments of despair and hope, joy and laughter, and those intangible sentiments that create wellness. Each encounter, whether humorous or deeply emotional, paints a vivid picture of the unpredictable audience Santa faces in each room.

The book highlights the profound impact of simple gestures—a smile, a kind word, and a small toy—in a place where joy is hard to find. It emphasizes the universal truth that there is a child within all of us, and sometimes, being “a Santa Claus” means bringing a moment of happiness to those facing adversity. Paul's reflections on his role, donning the red suit, and becoming a different man make this narrative deeply moving. The author shares beautiful stories — like the encounter with Henry and the nurse's enthusiastic involvement — that offer a glimpse into the touching and sometimes humorous moments that characterize this unique Christmas story. Hospitals Have No Chimneys invites readers to witness the transformative power of a smile amidst pain and to join the search for moments of joy in unexpected places. It is a celebration of humanity and a story that reminds readers that no matter how broken we are, there is always a wellspring of joy waiting to break forth. That wellspring needs a Santa Claus to provoke its movement. This book is an incredible Christmas story.