Adam Prudhomme
Beaver Staff
Towering above the entrance of the Lennox and Addington County General Hospital (LACGH) stands the Tree of Hope.
A tradition at the hospital since 2008, the tree serves as both a fundraiser and a memorial of sorts to the community. Adorning the artificial branches are over 200 angels, each with significant meaning to someone in the county.
For a minimum donation of $10, anyone can purchase an angel to hang upon the tree and write a name on it in tribute to a friend or family member.
“Usually we have about 500 ornaments on the tree,” said Michelle Dickerson, executive director of LACGH’s foundation. “People will place an angel on the tree for a loved one on the tree in memory or in tribute.”
Money raised from the campaign will go towards purchasing medical equipment.
“Every year the hospital will give us a wish list of capital equipment, this year’s list is over $544,000,” said Dickerson.
Among the items listed are patient beds, upgrades to anesthesia equipment and ultrasound units.
For many people, the Tree of Hope is a way to give back while honouring a loved one who is missed at the holiday table.
“At Christmas time families will come to visit and bring family members in to see grandpa or grandma’s ornament on the tree,” said Dickerson.
Angels for the tree can be bought at the foundation’s office, located inside LACGH. The campaign will run until Dec. 22. To date the campaign has raised $252,000 for the hospital over the years.