(Marinette, Wis.) – Lights will be shining again this Christmas season on the Love Light Tree at Bay Area Medical Center. This year marks the 14th year of the Love Light program sponsored by the BAMC Auxiliary.

“We are very excited to continue this tradition,” says Cheryl Windbiel, volunteer services coordinator at BAMC. “The lights on the tree in Marinette and on top of the Menominee facility symbolize not only a cherished holiday display but also the courage of those with cancer.”

Lights were traditionally purchased in memory of loved ones that lost the battle with cancer or those that are currently fighting the illness, but they can also be purchased in memory of those who suffered from any illness.

A formal ceremony will be held at BAMC on Sunday, December 8, at 4:30 p.m. and will include the lighting of the Love Light Tree and singing of Christmas carols by a local musical group. The names of those remembered will also be published in a holiday insert in the EagleHerald.

The Love Light program began in 1988 through efforts of the BAMC Auxiliary. Since then, the Auxiliary has raised $15,000 - $22,000 a year. Proceeds from the Love Light Tree are donated to the BAMC Oncology Fund, which has been used to purchase pain medication, updated equipment for diagnosis and treatment in the Cancer Care Center, and items to provide comfort to cancer patients at home.

The Oncology Fund has also allowed for the construction of two oncology suites to enable family members to spend 24 hours with their loved ones and has supported cancer screenings for the community such as skin, prostate and mammogram.

Love Light memorial cards can be picked up at many area businesses, and must be submitting by December 6, 2002. For more information please contact Lorraine Bird, Love Light Chairperson, at 732-2645.

Back to Highlights page...