Santa’s helper determined to spread Christmas cheer as he battles several forms of cancer

MECHANICSVILLE, Va. (WWBT/Gray News) - A man has made it his mission to spread Christmas cheer after doctors told him he only has months to live.

For more than four decades, William Gibson has been assisting Santa in Virginia by taking part in the Salvation Army Angel Tree program.

“The smiles and the satisfaction that it gives to the children as well as the adults,” Gibson said.

Equipped with a Santa suit and a bag full of toys, Gibson’s mission gives him a glimmer of hope during his darkest days.

The bright glow among the twinkling lights gives Gibson a glimmer of hope during his darkest days.

“I’ve got stomach cancer, I’ve got bone cancer, I have lung cancer, now I have two tumors in the brain that are bleeding,” he said. “It’s progressively got worse and they’re telling me I only have multiple months, several months to be here.”

Following his prognosis, Gibson is finding peace and purpose through the Angel Tree program.

“I’m persevering,” he said. “I’m going to continue to do what I need to do.”

Gibson wishes to make it through the holiday season. He’d like to continue helping give gifts and share the Christmas spirit with kids.

“You don’t need a pat on the back because you know what you did in your heart and it’s the right thing to do,” Gibson said.

The wishes wrapped in colorful paper and bows under the Christmas tree are a mission forever etched in his heart.

“Kids come up to me and it puts a smile on their faces. And, of course, the parents want to take pictures. All of that is just, it really warms my heart,” he said. “It’s just a tremendous, tremendous honor to be able to do that for the children and the adults.”