People interested in giving a unique gift this festive season can do so by sponsoring a light for a loved one on University Hospital Galway’s Christmas tree.
They can remember someone special at home or overseas or deceased family or friends through this fundraising initiative, which is in its 12th year and is the brainchild of the hospital’s Children’s Remembrance Day Committee.
Jim and Mary Bishop, members of the committee, launched this year’s Christmas cards and lights recently at the hospital.
Susan Massey, Children’s Remembrance Day Committee, says the Christmas tree lights are a unique gift.
“A Christmas card is given for each light sponsored which may be sent to relatives at home or abroad or to the family of a deceased relative or friend. This year’s Christmas card was designed by Sarah Duignan in memory of her uncle Ronan Duignan.”
Margaret Duignan, chairperson of the committee, says the Christmas tree brings solace and peace to patients, staff and visitors to the hospital.
The Christmas tree lights will be switched on on Sunday December 6 with the lights representing loved ones sponsored. All those who sponsor lights are included in a triduum of Masses and an ecumenical prayer service celebrated during Christmas at UHG’s chapel.
Lights costing €5 each will be available to the public on Sunday November 22 for two weeks from 9am to 8pm at the lift lobby, UHG.
For further information or to sponsor a light on the tree contact Margaret Duignan at (091 ) 523206, Susan Massey at (091 ) 635302 or Anne McKeown from 9am to 5pm at (091 ) 544823.
