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December 10, 2008
Tree of Lights is a shining example of the community support for Renfrew Victoria Hospital
Christmas officially arrived in downtown Renfrew in a shimmer of light during the supper hour on December 5.
The stately evergreen in Low Square became a colourful beacon of the season as part of the annual Renfrew Victoria Hospital Foundation’s Tree of Lights ceremony.
Each light on the tree symbolizes a gift of support received by the hospital through its annual Tree of Lights canvass. A special string of blue lights at the base of the tree symbolizes memorial contributions to the campaign.
“This is a very meaningful way for people and organizations in our community to honour others,” says RVH Foundation Director Barb Desilets. “This brightly decorated tree in the heart of our town reminds us each time we pass of how special the Christmas season is, and how lucky we are to live in such a family-oriented and caring community.”
Nearly 100 people gathered in the town square for this year’s lighting ceremony. Led by vocalist Mary Etmanski, they joined in a few traditional Christmas carols. The crowd was also addressed by Betty Flower, the local artist whose oil painting image is featured on this year’s campaign Christmas card.
The large number of children in the crowd were greeted by Santa himself, who brought along treats for each and every one of them.
“It was an old-fashioned Christmas event,” says Desilets. “The focus was on family and community spirit.”
Proceeds from this year’s campaign will help to bring a C.T. (computerized axial tomography) scanner to Renfrew. RVH received provincial approval for the C.T. earlier this year, and is now selecting the vendor to provide the equipment. While provincial approval is required, there are no provincial funds for this new service, meaning that a local investment of $3 million for equipment and renovations is required.
“The Tree of Lights campaign will play a very important part in realizing this goal,” says RVH CEO Randy Penney. “This is an important diagnostic procedure, and we are determined to provide it here for our local residents.”
“The ongoing support of our community gives us the confidence to make such a large investment,” he adds. “We are very privileged to be working in such a supportive environment.”
Anyone wishing to contribute to the Renfrew Victoria Hospital Foundation’s Tree of Lights campaign is invited to phone the Foundation office at 613-432-4851, ext. 263.
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(For more information, contact Barb Desilets, Director, Renfrew Victoria Hospital Foundation, 613-432-4851, ext. 263.)
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