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Ceremonies in Eastford. Courtesy photo.


PUTNAM — Families and friends gathered together on village greens in 11 communities across northeastern Connecticut for Day Kimball Healthcare’s 29th annual Tree of Life Ceremony. This year’s community celebration of Christmas carols, hope and healing, and magical lighting of the “Hospice Tree of Life” has raised more than $28,000 to support hospice and palliative care services in the region.
“This event has become a beloved tradition in Northeast Connecticut. The Tree of Life is one of the most significant fund-raising opportunities for the community to support hospice and palliative care services for individuals and families who are in need today,” said Day Kimball Healthcare’s Development Director Kristen Willis. “It’s a time to come together to celebrate and reflect on the lives of those you love, as well as the hospice staff and volunteers who have accompanied us on our journey.” 
The purchase of memorial lights on each community’s Tree of Life benefits the work done by Hospice and Palliative Care of Northeastern Connecticut, a service of Day Kimball Healthcare at Home, to enhance the lives of seriously and terminally ill patients and their families. In 2017, the hospice team cared for 148 patients and families.
“I do this in memory of my mother, Florence Mayhew who passed away from cancer,” said this year’s Tree of Life Chairperson Holly Gilbert. Holly is a cancer survivor and 29-year hospice volunteer. “I know how important hospice is for both the patient and their family. Knowing someone is there for you, that you are cared for and loved is so important. Many times there are no words that need to be offered, only your presence. The lights on the trees are a symbol of hope and healing and a way to keep this compassionate care going.”
Ceremonies were held in the towns of Brooklyn, Canterbury, Danielson, Eastford, Griswold, Plainfield, Pomfret, Putnam, Sterling, Thompson and Woodstock.
The funds raised through this event are used to support hospice and palliative patient care and services provided to the community not covered by insurance.