Spence and Becky Wilson Baptist Children’s Hospital and Baptist Reynolds Hospice House both held holiday events for the community on Thursday, Dec. 7. The Baptist Children’s Hospital event focused on family fun while the Hospice House gathering served as a memorial to loved ones.
The Baptist Children’s Hospital event was open to the community, staff, and patients and their families. Attendees interacted with 901Goats; visited with Santa, Mrs. Claus and P.D. Parrot; enjoyed hot cocoa and cookies; and made Christmas crafts.
“The holiday event was a wonderful opportunity to showcase our hospital and staff, especially our child life specialists,” said Laura Cantrell, senior development officer. “It was a great event to celebrate a wonderful time of year!”
The Baptist Reynolds Hospice House event, attended by nearly 100 people, featured a tree lighting and Celebration of Life service to honor loved ones who have passed. Throughout December, thousands of twinkling white lights will illuminate the Hospice House and Christmas tree.
The Celebration of Life ceremony included the reading of names of loved ones lost and luminaries placed in a circle around the front of the building. Each family received keepsake ornaments, and refreshments were served as participants enjoyed carols sung by the Mt. Herman Male Chorus. At the end of the ceremony, attendees lit candles in memory of loved ones.
Some participants gave donations to the Baptist Memorial Health Care Foundation Hospice House Fund in honor of their loved ones. The Foundation provides financial assistance to those who are facing their end-of-life journey without the means to cover the expense of hospice care.
