More than 1,800 purple and white lights illuminate the 20-foot evergreen tree on the front lawn of UPMC Hamot in Erie. Each purple light is in memory of a loved one, and white lights honor those who are special in our lives.
The Hamot Health Foundation’s Brighten the Night supports Great Lakes Hospice. Each year more than $30,000 is generated from the event now in its fifth year.
LuAnne MacIsaac, vice-president of Great Lake Hospice, said that the holidays are especially difficult for those who have lost a loved one, and the tree lighting ceremony, which includes remembrances and inspirational reflections, helps in the grieving process. She said that the donations help to care for Hospice patients in the community.