MercyOne Genesis Annual Hospice Tree-Lighting: A Heartfelt Tribute to Loved Ones
For two decades, the MercyOne Genesis Hospice Remembrance Tree-lighting has been a community tradition to usher in the holiday season and celebrate the memories of loved ones who have passed. The tree-lighting also illuminates the region's continuing need for access to quality hospice care.
This year’s tree-lighting will be on Monday, November 4, at 6 p.m. outside the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, 2546 Tech Drive, Bettendorf. Family and friends are welcome to attend the emotional service, which will include readings, music and moments of reflection.
Parking will be available at 2535 Maplecrest Road, adjacent to the hospice house. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and dress for the weather. Hot chocolate and cookies will be available. A shuttle will be available from the parking lot.
“The MercyOne Genesis Hospice Remembrance Tree program allows family and friends time to come together, along with their hospice team, to remember their loved ones lost and to honor their memory,” said Julie VanMelkebeke, BSN, RN, MercyOne Genesis Hospice Care manager.
“The number of people in attendance continues to grow, and it's truly a privilege and quite humbling to see the response every year. MercyOne Genesis Hospice remains committed to supporting the families and friends left behind. The holidays can be difficult for grieving loved ones, and we hope this provides a bit of comfort during a difficult time.”
Since 2004, Genesis Hospice Remembrance Trees have honored more than 7,000 individuals and raised more than $100,000 for hospice care services. For some, the tree lighting has become a family tradition – a way to pause during the busy holiday season and gather and remember with the support of others.
The tree-lighting also has become a tradition for MercyOne Genesis Hospice team members, who share pride in all the Remembrance Tree represents and plan the event to honor the hospice patients who have touched their lives.
Sponsor a Light to Illuminate Remembrance Tree
MercyOne Genesis Hospice has partnered again with Isabel Bloom to create a limited-edition ornament. The sale of the ornament helps support MercyOne Genesis Hospice Care.
Ornaments are available for purchase online until Sunday, November 3rd.
Pick-up will be on Monday, November 4, at the Remembrance Tree event.
After the event, they will be available for pick up at the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House.
Honor loved ones' memories and support our community's continuing need for hospice care by donating to illuminate the MercyOne Genesis Hospice Remembrance Tree. To purchase an ornament online or sponsor a light, visit genesishealth.com/tree or text RTREE to 41444.
MEDIA NOTES
WHO: MercyOne Genesis Hospice
WHAT: MercyOne Genesis Hospice Remembrance Tree-lighting
WHERE: Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, 2546 Tech Drive, Bettendorf
WHEN: Monday, November, 6 p.m.
WHY: The tree lighting is a great visual and interview opportunity. We hope that you will be able to staff this annual heartwarming holiday event.