People can remember loved ones in a unique way this Christmas by sponsoring a light on the Christmas tree at University Hospital Galway.
The initiative is the brainchild of the Children’s Remembrance Day Committee. The lights are on sale in the main foyer of UHG from 9am until 7pm until Saturday December 8. They cost €5 each and the funds raised are used for projects to enhance facilities for parents and children at the hospital.
Susan Massey of the Children’s Remembrance Day Committee says the Christmas tree lights are a “unique gift”.
She says people can sponsor a light for a loved one, living or deceased. Some people like to remember someone who has emigrated.
“In December a huge Christmas tree will be on display at the entrance to UHG and people can sponsor a light on the tree as a dedication to a loved one. Many families have loved ones who have emigrated and will not be home for Christmas. This is a thoughtful way of letting them know we miss them.
“Unfortunately many families have suffered bereavements during the year and sponsoring a light for someone who has passed away is a lovely way of letting family and friends know that we are thinking of them in a special way.
“Every time a light is sponsored, the family of the person who the light is dedicated to receives a Christmas card.”
Singer/songwriter Don Stiffe launched the Christmas cards and lights initiative and the committee says it is indebted to him for his involvement.
“We will be switching on the Christmas tree lights Sunday 9 December at 4.45pm,” says Ms Massey. “The afternoon’s festivities will commence at 2.30pm with music from The Conquerors and Friends and we will have Christmas carols sung by the boys and girls from Scoil Cathríona Renmore. The committee is hoping that Santa may also pay a visit.”
For more information on the Christmas tree lights and cards contact the Children’s Remembrance Day Committee members Margaret Duignan on (091 ) 523206 or Susan Massey at (091 ) 635302.
