Launch of Children’s Remembrance Day Christmas Tree Lights at UHG

The Children’s Remembrance Day Committee at University Hospital Galway (UHG) celebrated the launch of their Christmas tree lights yesterday, Tuesday 10 November.
 
In December a giant 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. This is a thoughtful way of letting them know we are thinking of them. Everytime a light is sponsored; the family of the person to whom the light is dedicated to receives a Christmas card.
 
Susan Massey from the Children’s Remembrance Day Committee explained, “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. Families may have loved ones who have emigrated and will not be home for Christmas and again sponsoring a light is a way to let them know they are in our thoughts.
 
“The funds raised through the sale of the Christmas cards and lights are used to provide comfort for bereaved families. Last year the funds raised were used to contribute to the refurbishment of the family room in St. Anthony's ward, to maintain the Garden of Remembrance, publish bereavement booklets and continue to hold our annual service for deceased members of staff and our Children’s Remembrance Mass.   
 
“We are delighted that Sean Costello was here with us to formally launch the Christmas tree lights. The lights will be on sale in the main foyer of UHG from 20 November until 06 December and cost €5 each”.
 
Switching on the Christmas Tree Lights
On Sunday 06 December, Ireland’s leading county singer, Jimmy Buckley will be switching on the Christmas tree lights at 4.30pm. The afternoon’s festivities will commence at 2.30pm with music from The Conquerors and Friends. Christmas Carols will be sung by the boys and girls from Scoil Cathríona Renmore.
 
For more information on the Christmas tree lights, please contact Children’s Remembrance Day Committee members Margaret Duignan on 091 523206 or Susan Massey on 091 635302.
 
Pictured are: Sean Kostello (centre) Left: Anne McKeown, Treasurer; Phil Grealish, Assistant Secretary; Julie Nohilly, A/Director of Nursing, GUH and Susan Massey, PRO. Right: Margaret Duignan, Chairperson; Jean Kelly, A/Group Director of Nursing and Fidelma Kenny, Secretary.