Nathan Littauer Hospital’s annual Tree of Lights Celebration ushered in the Holiday Season last night. The Tree of Lights, now in its 19th year was lit last light in a celebration complete with music, refreshments and prayers. Offered as “A Symbol of Hope and Love” the memory tree was lit by Auxiliary President Anita Moore in front of many onlookers. The tree is outside the hospital’s surgical waiting room, adorned with over 600 white lights lit in memory of loved ones. This year, about 65 people came to the ceremony. Attendees were entertained by Devan Rowe, and joined Pat Travis- Doull and Nate’s Notes in singing Christmas carols.

The annual event is brought to the community by the Nathan Littauer Hospital Auxiliary. People throughout the community buy a light as a tribute or memorial. This year the Auxiliary raised over $3,000 . Littauer’s Director of Volunteer Services, Sue McNeil noted, “We are so grateful to all our dedicated volunteers who bring us this moving event, year after year. It is a warm reminder of the holidays and of our loved ones.”

Tree of Lights Festival

Littauer’s President and CEO, Laurence E. Kelly told the onlookers, “It is fitting we would have this celebration when we are about to open our new maternity unit.” He explained that this moving tribute combined with the new maternity unit honors the cycle of life.

The Tree of Lights Committee is:

Bonnie James-Cooper and Donna Ellithorpe, Co-Chairmen

Toby Ortell

Mona Capasso

Pat Walker

Susan McNeil

Sue McNeil and Devon Rowe sing at this year’s celebration