BETTENDORF, Iowa — Editor's note: The above video aired on Nov. 15, 2021.
As the holiday season approaches and people think about and spend time with loved friends and family, Genesis is continuing their annual ceremony honoring the memory of those who have passed on.
The health system is holding its 19th annual tree-lighting ceremony at Bettendorf's Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House on Monday, Nov. 14 at 6 p.m. Family and friends are welcome to gather for readings, music, and reflection.
The hospital said that the ceremony is an important community focal point for celebrating the memories of loved ones and shining a light on the continuing need for quality hospice care.
Since 2004, the annual event has honored more than 7,000 people and raised more than $100,000 for hospice care services, and some members of the community and the Genesis Hospice team see it as a family tradition.
“Genesis Hospice is ‘where every life is extraordinary and honored as sacred,’” Genesis Home and Community Services Director Jamie Moen said. “The Genesis Remembrance Tree shines a light on the legacy of the patients who have received our care, and we hope it provides comfort to many."
Community members can become "individual light sponsors" by donating $10 to illuminate the tree and support Genesis Hospice Services. Interested donors can click/tap here to learn more.
The Hospice team has once again paired with Isabel Bloom to produce limited-edition ornaments for the 2022 remembrance tree, which will be available for purchase and pick-up at the ceremony. The ornaments cost $20 and are available for pre-order here. Any leftover ornaments can be bought at the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House after Nov. 14.
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