A North Texas Santa put the entire staff at Methodist Dallas Medical Center on the “nice list” to thank them for saving his wife’s life with a liver transplant.
“I can never repay what you all have given me,” says Thomas McDonald, known affectionately during the holidays as Santa Thomas back home in the Sherman area.
Lisa McDonald, who sometimes plays Mrs. Claus to her husband’s St. Nick, credits the Methodist Dallas staff for putting her on the path to recovery this spring after her transformative transplant.
“I’m just thankful to be alive,” Lisa says. “Other than God, I owe my life to all their care.”
In a heartwarming gesture on July 12, the McDonalds returned to Methodist Dallas for a special “Christmas in July” event to express their gratitude. Thomas, dressed in his red hat, suspenders, and festive Christmas shorts, posed for photos while the hospital treated staff to warm cookies and live Christmas music performed by a string quartet.
“Hosting Christmas in July is but a tiny token of my love for all that Methodist has given me,” Thomas says.
STAGE 4 LIVER FAILURE
Lisa had bravely faced stage four liver disease before her April 2024 surgery, performed by Vichin Puri, MD, director of surgical oncology at Methodist Dallas.
“The liver could not maintain its function, so I was able to perform the transplant for her failing liver,” Dr. Puri says. “We’re really pleased with her overall progress.”
Dr. Puri commends Thomas not just for his seasonal cheer but for his unwavering support for Lisa throughout her health journey.
“They make a great team. He was always very supportive of his wife,” Dr. Puri shares. “She’s done well because he’s at her side.”
Drawn together by Lisa’s artistic criticism, the McDonalds built a family together.
MET IN GRADE SCHOOL
Thomas and Lisa’s love story spans five decades, originating from a playful encounter in eighth-grade art class that blossomed into a lifelong partnership. Reflecting on their journey, Thomas fondly recalled the magic words that stole his heart.
“When I was turning in my artwork, she said, ‘You traced that.’ That’s when I turned and looked at her, and that was it.”
Little did Lisa know, her playful critique marked the beginning of a love story that surpassed all expectations.
“I thought, well, he’s cute and everything, but I just don’t think he’s my type,” she recalls.
Turns out, he very much was her type: In March, the couple will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, a milestone supported by the dedicated care of the team at Methodist Dallas.
“Everyone, from the surgeons all the way to the housekeepers, is a vital part of our family,” Thomas says. “I’m so thankful for everything everybody did for her.”
Dr. Puri (center) and other members of the Methodist Dallas transplant team welcomed the McDonalds back to the hospital in July.
CHRISTMAS IN JULY
For more than a decade, Thomas has brought Santa to life around Texoma, with Lisa joining him as Mrs. Claus.
“That’s his professional job, especially around Christmastime, but I think he carries that Santa-esque demeanor throughout the year,” Dr. Puri says. “It’s always festive around him.”
During Lisa’s recuperation, Thomas brought joy to hospital corridors dressed in full Santa attire, spreading Christmas spirit with his beard and golfing attire.
He now hopes to continue spreading holiday cheer year-round. Whether embodying Santa’s spirit or simply showing kindness, he aims to bring happiness to others while cherishing the extra moments he gets to share with Lisa by his side.
“She’s my best friend,” he says.
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