He’s made dollhouses for sick kids since the pandemic — even after his own cancer diagnosis

Vincent Giannotti may not don the traditional red suit and hat of Santa Claus, but his passion for making toys and spreading joy is reminiscent of the jolly old man himself. At 73 years old, with a white beard slightly shorter than Santa’s, Giannotti has transformed his workshop in Tecumseh, Ontario into a hub of creativity and generosity.

Giannotti’s journey into toy-making began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he was faced with a grim diagnosis of prostate cancer that had spread to his bones. Forced to leave his job as a plumber and project manager, Giannotti turned to building dollhouses as a way to distract himself from the challenges of his illness. What started as a hobby for his granddaughters quickly evolved into a mission to bring smiles to children facing health challenges.

Each dollhouse crafted by Giannotti is a labor of love, taking anywhere from 110 to 150 hours to complete. With an estimated cost of $150 in materials per house, Giannotti spares no detail in creating intricate miniature homes that feature sinks, stoves, tubs, showers, Christmas lights, and even functional drawers in dressers. The houses are built with the same care and attention to detail as a real home, complete with spiral staircases and stained glass windows.

Giannotti’s generosity knows no bounds, as he donates these dollhouses to charities for fundraisers and to local children in need. His goal is to bring a sense of normalcy and joy to sick children, allowing them to forget their illnesses and immerse themselves in the world of play. The reactions from the children who receive these dollhouses are nothing short of heartwarming, as Giannotti witnesses the transformation of these young girls into carefree spirits once again.

One of the organizations that helps distribute Giannotti’s dollhouses is the Fight Like Mason Foundation, a Windsor-based charity that supports families dealing with childhood cancer. Co-founder Iain Macri describes the impact of Giannotti’s creations as “amazing,” emphasizing the craftsmanship and love that goes into each dollhouse. For families going through crisis, these miniature homes provide a beacon of hope and positivity during dark times.

Despite his own health struggles, Giannotti remains dedicated to his mission of spreading joy through his dollhouses. His resilience and generosity inspire those around him, serving as a reminder of the power of giving in the face of adversity. As Giannotti continues to build these whimsical creations, he not only brings happiness to children in need but also raises awareness about prostate cancer and the importance of early testing.

In a world where kindness and compassion are more valuable than ever, Vincent Giannotti stands as a shining example of the magic that can be created through simple acts of generosity. His workshop may not be located in the North Pole, but his impact on the lives of children in his community is nothing short of miraculous.