The Inn Welcomes the First Lady for Valentine’s Day Party

The visit is the fourth for Melania Trump to The Inn, each time as part of the Valentine’s Day festivities.

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First Lady Melania Trump participates in Valentine’s Day crafts projects with patients at The Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health, Wednesday, February 11, 2026, in Bethesda, Maryland. Official White House Photo by Andrea Hanks)

As part of The Children’s Inn’s Valentine’s Day celebrations this week, The Inn was honored to host First Lady of the United States Melania Trump on Wednesday. Mrs. Trump celebrated an early Valentine’s Day with children receiving treatment at the NIH Clinical Center and their families.

Upon her arrival, Mrs. Trump was greeted by Chief Executive Officer of The Children’s Inn Jennie Lucca, NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya, and Inn Board Vice Chair Scott Royal. Inn resident Lina presented the First Lady with a Valentine’s Day bouquet.

During her visit, the First Lady participated in Valentine’s Day craft activities, helping children create handmade cards and decorations. Mrs. Trump spent time speaking with patients and their families, offering words of encouragement and learning about their experiences at The Inn and the NIH Clinical Center.

“We were deeply honored to welcome First Lady Melania Trump back to The Children’s Inn,” said Lucca. “Her visit brought joy and comfort to our children and families at a time when compassion and encouragement mean so much. This Valentine’s Day celebration served as a heartfelt reminder that our families are surrounded by care, support, and hope throughout their medical journey.

Mrs. Trump also visited The Inn three times during her husband’s first term in office, joining the Valentine’s Day festivities in 2018, 2019, and 2020.

“Love reveals itself in many forms, especially in the hardest moments of care and compassion,” said Mrs. Trump. “The Children’s Inn provides important support to children who have been diagnosed with rare and serious diseases. Returning to The Children’s Inn at NIH is a special reminder of warmth that exists here year-round thanks to the profound resilience of these young people and the dedication of those working to provide comfort, hope, and support during clinical trials. I wish them all a very happy Valentine’s Day.”