submitted by Jane Adams
“That was wonderful”. “I know some of those children”. “Thank you so much”. These were just some of the comments overheard as students from Morrisburg Public School toured WDMH, handing out empathy cards and singing Christmas carols for patients and staff. For the past 12 years, teacher Sarah Barclay Thomas has organized this festive tradition.
It was all part of the annual Judy Lannin Christmas Wish Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 11. The program provides an opportunity to make a donation in memory, or in honour, of someone near and dear to your heart.
“For those of us who have made an in-memoriam gift, we are missing someone from our lives. But they are always there, in our hearts and in the back of our minds. For those of us who have made a gift in honour of someone, we are grateful to know you, and we value you more than you will know,” explained the Foundation’s Managing Director Kristen Casselman, just before the giant tree was lit up. “We each have our own way of remembering, reflecting, showing appreciation, and caring. Thank you.”
WDMH Chief of Staff, Dr. Darren Tse, spoke about the impact of the Wish Tree donations. “Every gift ensures we can provide the very best and safest care at WDMH. Thank you for your support and for being part of this festive tradition. You truly make a difference!”
Special thanks to the Seaway Valley Singers, who serenaded the crowd, as well as the many sponsors of The Judy Lannin Christmas Wish Tree. Proceeds from the program go to the Family Care Fund, to help ensure that WDMH can continue to provide compassionate, excellent health care – close to home.
