Carnival Cruise Line arranged a surprise visit to Queensland Children’s Hospital patients, featuring the Grinch, who delivered gifts alongside the Carnival team, according to a press release.

The event is part of Carnival’s ongoing partnership with the Children’s Hospital Foundation, which began in 2019. The Grinch will continue celebrating Christmas with guests aboard the Carnival Luminosa throughout December.

“It’s clear the Grinch’s heart has grown three sizes,” said Carnival Cruise Line VP Kara Glamore. “We were delighted to have him join the Carnival team to spread Christmas cheer to patients and families of the Queensland Children’s Hospital. The smiles we saw are a beautiful example of the meaningful ways we want to give back to the Queensland community that has continued to welcome us with such open arms.”

Funds raised by Carnival’s team and guests support the Children’s Hospital Foundation initiatives, which provide comfort to patients like six-year-old Layla Hall, a two-time leukemia survivor. Contributions help fund play areas, craft packs and special ward visits that bring moments of joy during treatment.

“It was the hardest thing we ever faced as a family,” said Layla’s mother, Devon Hall. “Children’s Hospital Foundation brought light to our darkest days. Their support made all the difference, turning the hospital into a place of hope rather than fear.”

Children’s Hospital Foundation CEO Lyndsey Rice said: “Every December, more than 9,000 children receive care at the Queensland Children’s Hospital, with one in three traveling from regional or remote areas to access the vital treatment they need. For these children and their families, Christmas often feels far from home. That’s why we’re so grateful to partners like Carnival for helping bring the magic of the festive season to life within our hospital walls. Their ongoing generosity both in-hospital and from guests on board cruises, help us create moments of joy and connection – not just at Christmas, but all year round.”