As they laid there, bedridden due to sickness, a certain void could be detected.

That all changed once Santa arrived at Blue Mountain Health System's Palmerton campus Tuesday to spread holiday cheer to patients.Santa's visit was once again sponsored by members of the Palmerton United Veterans Organization, which consists of American Legion Post 269 and VFW Post 7134.Patients received a goody bag filled with a piece of candy, an orange, cookies, a Christmas tree ornament, a folded flag ornament and a Christmas card.As he was surrounded by loved ones, Joseph Rodrigues of Palmerton was one of the lucky patients who had a chance to speak with Santa."I think it was nice of him," Rodrigues said.Fellow patient Steve Obremski of Palmerton said he couldn't agree more."I think it's great," Obremski said.Several rooms down, laughter filled the room shared by patients Ray Fladzinski and Wescoe Eckhart."Nice to see you, Santa," said Fladzinski of Albrightsville.Eckhart of Walnutport said, "I think it's a great thing."Joe Uhnak, first vice commander, American Legion Post 269, said the PUVO has been carrying on the tradition for years."It kind of lifts your spirit up," Uhnak said. "It makes them feel good, and it's nice seeing them with smiles on their faces."The legion is always in search of new members. It meets the fourth Tuesday of each month.Those who would like to join may call 610-826-7475 or 570-325-9657.