People interested in giving a unique gift this festive season can do so by sponsoring a light for €5 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 10th year and is the brainchild of the hospital’s Children’s Remembrance Day Committee.
“The Christmas tree brings solace and peace to both patients, staff and visitors to the hospital each year,” explains Margaret Duignan, chairperson of the committee.
“Lights will be available to the general public on Sunday November 23 for two weeks from 9am to 8pm at the main foyer, University Hospital Galway. It is advisable to come early to avoid disappointment. To celebrate our 10th Christmas tree at UHG a commemorative Christmas Tree ornament can also be purchased for €5.”
Speaking at the launch of the Christmas cards and lights at UHG Martin Mannion, a loyal supporter of the Children’s Remembrance Day initiative said he had been involved in helping to organise the Christmas tree at the hospital for the past 10 years.
Susan Massey of the Children’s Remembrance Day Committee, UHG said the Christmas tree lights are a unique gift whereby a light may be sponsored for a loved one.
“ 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 Tracy Roughan in memory of her dad, John.”
The Christmas tree lights will be switched on on Sunday December 7. All those who sponsor lights are included in a triduum of Masses and an ecumenical prayer service celebrated over Christmas at UHG’s hospital chapel.
For further information or if you would like to sponsor a light on the tree contact Margaret Duignan at (091 ) 523206 or Susan Massey at (091 ) 635302 or Anne McKeown from 9am to 5pm at (091 ) 544823.
