Melania Trump Charms Patients During Valentine's Day Hospital Visit

First Lady Connects with Sick Teens, Shares Self-Care Routine

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

First Lady Melania Trump visited with patients at The Children's Inn at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, for a Valentine's Day event. She encouraged the teens to be open with her, and one young man jokingly referred to her as 'the queen.' Melania responded with warmth, sharing details about her busy schedule at the White House and her self-care routine of exercising and avoiding sugary treats.

Why it matters

Melania Trump's visit to the children's hospital highlights her continued efforts to connect with the public, especially vulnerable populations like sick children, and share messages of hope and resilience. Her candid interactions and willingness to open up about her personal life provide a glimpse into the first lady's softer side and her commitment to using her platform to support important causes.

The details

During the event, Melania Trump sat with the patients and made Valentine's Day crafts, bonding with them over discussions about her life in the White House, her love of sports like tennis and skiing, and her self-care routine. She warned the teens about the dangers of technology, encouraging them to 'be vigilant' and 'not believe everything.' Melania also joined the patients at a dessert table, admitting she doesn't indulge in many sweets because 'sugar is not that healthy for us.'

  • Melania Trump visited The Children's Inn at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
  • The event was held in celebration of Valentine's Day.

The players

Melania Trump

The First Lady of the United States, who visited the children's hospital to celebrate Valentine's Day and connect with the young patients.

Lina

An 11-year-old patient at the hospital who gifted Melania Trump a bouquet of white roses.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I don't play chess but I know a queen when I see one”

— Smitten young man (New York Post)

“Stay well. Stay strong. I will think about you”

— Melania Trump, First Lady (New York Post)

“You have to be careful. It's very positive but you have to be vigilant. You cannot believe everything”

— Melania Trump, First Lady (New York Post)

What’s next

Melania Trump's visit to The Children's Inn is part of her ongoing efforts to connect with and support vulnerable populations. As the First Lady continues her work in this area, future events and initiatives are likely to be announced.

The takeaway

Melania Trump's warm and engaging interactions with the young patients at The Children's Inn showcase her compassionate side and her commitment to using her platform to uplift and encourage those facing serious health challenges. Her willingness to open up about her personal life and self-care routine resonated with the teens, demonstrating the First Lady's ability to forge meaningful connections with the public.