Lights of Love Tree Lighting Ceremony Illuminates UNC Health Lenoir

The annual Lights of Love tree lighting ceremony at UNC Health Lenoir Hospital brought warmth and reflection to the community, marking over 30 years of celebrating life, love, and remembrance.

Rev. Libbie Taylor, representing UNC Health Volunteers, expressed gratitude to the supporters of the project. The ceremony, originally initiated to commemorate those touched by cancer, has evolved into a broader program. Taylor highlighted the significance of the Lights of Love tree, describing it as a visible sign to the community, bringing light, hope, and companionship to families affected by cancer.

"And the volunteers want to say, 'Thank you for your support of this project,'" Taylor said, acknowledging the dedicated volunteer team and the committee led by Ella Wade. She extended gratitude to the medical staff, nurses, and others caring for cancer patients.

Dr. Crystal Hayden, President & CEO of UNC Health Lenoir expressed gratitude for the community's embrace of the tradition. Hayden emphasized the event's role in reflecting on the hope and love embodied in the Christmas season.

"The likes of love tree lighting is about more than just lighting a Christmas tree. It's a time of remembrance and thankfulness," Hayden stated, recognizing the 37-year tradition of memorializing loved ones and supporting health outcomes through donations to the UNC Health Lenoir Cancer Center.

Ron Michalowicz, a volunteer and cancer survivor, shared a personal story about his wife's health journey, underlining the importance of the love and care provided by the hospital community. Michalowicz encouraged support for programs like the American Cancer Society's road to recovery, emphasizing the need for volunteer drivers in the county.

The ceremony concluded with the lighting of the tree, symbolizing the love shared within the community. The Rogers family provided lively entertainment, adding a festive touch to the event.

The Lights of Love ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit of community support and love, especially during the holiday season. Each illuminated light on the tree represents someone special, reinforcing the hospital's commitment to compassionate care and community well-being.

UNC Health Lenoir, licensed for 199 beds, is a nonprofit hospital serving the Lenoir County area with acute, outpatient, and community health services. The hospital has a 117-year history of providing excellent care to the community. In addition to general medical, surgical, and obstetrical and gynecological care, UNC Lenoir offers specialized services including cardiology, pulmonology, oncology, radiology, and urology. Surgical specialties include general surgery, vascular, orthopedic, and bariatrics. UNC Health Lenoir affiliated with the UNC Health Care System in 2017. For more information or to find a physician, visit unclenoir.org. .