Galway hospital launches christmas remembrance lights appeal

THE annual Christmas lights ceremony has been launched at University Hospital Galway, which gives families a special way to remember their loved ones over the festive season.
Members of the public are invited to sponsor a light on the hospital’s giant Christmas tree, which will be displayed at the entrance to the hospital next month, as a dedication to a loved one who is absent over Christmas.
Every time a light is sponsored, the family of the person to whom the light is dedicated receives a Christmas card. Many families have loved ones who have emigrated and this is a thoughtful way of letting them know that they are missed.
“Unfortunately many families have experienced bereavement during the year and sponsoring a light is a lovely way to acknowledge their loss,” said Margaret Duignan of the Children’s Remembrance Committee.
Caherlistrane musician Matt Keane launched the lights and Christmas card initiative at the hospital last week.
The lights are on sale in the main foyer of UHG until Saturday Dec 7.
The lights cost €5 each and the monies raised are used to fund the annual activities organised by the committee, the remaining funds are used to enhance the facilities within the hospital for bereaved families.
The Christmas tree lights will be switched on at 4.45 pm on Sunday Dec 7 when Santa is expected to attend a special afternoon of festivities. Music will be performed by the Conquerors and friends, along with a special Christmas carol ceremony sung by the boys and girls of Scoil Catriona, Renmore.