In the heart of McKinney, Texas, an extraordinary holiday tradition has captivated the community for nearly a decade.
Each year, Mark Cornetti and Nasheel Joules transform their home on Palermo Way into a luminous wonderland, attracting countless visitors, Fox 4 KDFW reported.
Behind the dazzling display of lights lies a heartfelt mission: raising awareness about heart disease. What began as a simple holiday project has become a beacon of hope and joy for many in the area.
From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, Palermo Way earns the nickname “Christmas Way” as the Cornetti-Joules household bursts to life with a stunning array of decorations. The couple has gradually expanded their collection over the years, turning their property into a must-see holiday destination.
“We just buy a few more things each year,” Joules shared with Fox 4. “We’ve always loved looking at Christmas lights.”
However, their festive tradition took on new meaning after Joules faced life-altering health challenges.
Several years ago, Joules was diagnosed with a rare autoinflammatory condition known as CAPS (Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndromes). The disease triggers severe symptoms when exposed to cold temperatures, making many winter activities unbearable for her. This diagnosis profoundly impacted her ability to partake in seasonal festivities.
“So many things people enjoy during Christmas make me miserable because of my condition,” Joules explained to the Fox affiliate.
The situation became even more challenging when Joules developed stage three heart failure due to complications from her condition. Faced with these limitations, the couple shifted their focus inward, creating a holiday haven at home.
“Since I couldn’t go out to enjoy the Christmas activities, we decided to bring Christmas to us,” said Joules. Their efforts not only provided comfort but turned their home into a source of inspiration for the community.
What started as a personal retreat quickly evolved into something much more significant. The couple soon realized the profound impact their display had on visitors.
“When we saw the smiles and laughter it brought to people who came by, it became more about doing it for them than for us,” Joules reflected. The joy their display brings to others now serves as the driving force behind their annual efforts, illustrating the transformative power of community and compassion.
In addition to spreading holiday cheer, the couple uses their platform to raise awareness about heart disease and related health issues.