For six years, lung cancer survivor Bruce Smith, originally from Catasauqua, has thanked LV Hospital-Muhlenberg staff and helped stoke the holiday fire for current patients by organizing “Pathways to Santa.” An event made to boost spirits with a mascot and music-filled hospital visit, it also gathers donations from local companies and residents which go directly to cancer patients. This year “Santa” collected more than $42,000 in gift cards to help the patients in any number of ways.