DIDSBURY – The Tree of Hope was lit up on Dec. 5 at the Didsbury Hospital after a short service including carols with Karen and Marvin Engel held inside the building.
The tree is the conclusion of a fundraiser by the Rosebud Health Foundation and features both blue bulbs, remembering those who have passed on, and red bulbs, offering greetings of hope for family and friends.
The money, which is raised by selling the bulbs, goes towards palliative care needs. More than $4,000 was raised and approximately 750 bulbs were hung on the tree.
Leone Regner, coordinator of the Rosebud Health Foundation, said the ceremony went very well.
“It was a lovely evening,” said Regner. “This was one of the best years we've had since I've been involved. This event is significant because it provides us with a unique way to remember loved ones who have passed on, and to send a greeting of hope to family and friends.
“Through the donations collected, the lighting of the Tree of Hope allows the Rosebud Foundation to purchase equipment and sponsor education seminars that will continue to provide and enhance the quality of palliative care to those individuals and their families who need it.”
The goal of the compassionate care committee is to improve the quality of life for terminally ill patients by addressing the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of the dying individual and their family.
“Once again the community and volunteers have shown wonderful support and generosity and have helped us to far exceed our expectations,” she said.
"This event is significant because it provides us with a unique way to remember loved ones who have passed on, and to send a greeting of hope to family and friends."Leone Regnercoordinator of the Rosebud Health Foundation
