The Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño (INSN) in Lima, Peru, was filled with joy on January 6 as members of the Peruvian National Police visited the hospital, impersonated as the Three Kings, to distribute gifts to children receiving treatment.
On this special day known as La Bajada de Reyes (The Three Kings Day), the police arrived mounted on horses, creating an enchanting atmosphere for the little ones. Over one hundred hospitalized children, accompanied by their families and medical staff, eagerly awaited the arrival of Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltasar.
“La Bajada de Reyes es una actividad tradicional en el Instituto Nacional del Niño. Se convoca a niños, adolescentes y sus padres para que puedan participar con Melchor, Gaspar y Baltasar,” said Carlos Urbano, the hospital's general director, highlighting the event's significance for the children and their families.
The officers from the Mounted Historical Unit presented the Niño Jesús to Urbano and then proceeded to hand out dozens of gifts to both the hospitalized children and those visiting for outpatient treatments.
Urbano explained the importance of such activities during the holiday season. “Durante todo diciembre y principios de enero se organizan este tipo de actividades relacionadas con la Navidad y los Reyes Magos, pues estas ilusionan a los niños al aportarles alegría, tranquilidad y paz,” he stated. This initiative brings not only gifts but also emotional support during difficult times for families.
Many parents expressed their gratitude. Nancy, who traveled from the northern region of Piura for her two-year-old daughter’s treatment, appreciated the hospital staff's dedication. Vanesa, mother of Kalesi, remarked, “Que el hospital pueda tener este gesto de brindar un pequeño regalo, para ellos es mucho y la felicidad para ellos es grata.” Her words underscored the joy the small presents brought to the children.
Urbano emphasized the INSN’s longstanding history, stating, “El INSN tiene 95 años de existencia y su personal mantiene un enorme compromiso por la salud de los menores de todas las regiones.” This highlights the commitment to providing care not only for physical ailments but also for mental well-being.
The police officers’ visit and the gift-giving ceremony serve as poignant reminders of the compassion and community support for children undergoing treatment. Such initiatives play a pivotal role during times when families are often overwhelmed by health issues.
This annual tradition at the INSN reinforces the hospital’s mission to sustain joy and hope among children during Christmas and the New Year. The efforts put forth by the Peruvian National Police contribute significantly to fostering positive experiences for the young patients.
By blending holiday cheer with community support, the INSN and police demonstrate their shared commitment to promoting happiness and health for all, providing heartwarming stories of resilience amid hardship.
The successful event reaffirms the influence these acts of kindness have, helping families endure long hospital stays and offering moments of brightness through adversity.
With 95 years of dedication to children's health care, the Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño remains steadfast, ensuring its role as more than just a place for medical treatment but as a beacon of hope and joy for families across Peru.