Love lights tree for Good Samaritan Hospice
By David J. Bisset
The holidays are a time to cherish loved ones, including those who are no longer with us.
The Fifth Annual Love Lights Tree in New River Valley Mall was lit Thursday morning to remember the lives of deceased family and friends.
Christiansburg’s Sam Dudash, who will turn five on Christmas Day, helped Good Samaritan Hospice Chaplain of the New River Valley Todd Triplett push the button to light the tree.
Jan Dodash of Christiansburg talks to her grandson Sam, 5, about the Love Light Tree, which can be seen at the New River Mall this month.
“This is a bittersweet time of the year,” said Triplett.
“It is an exciting time for children and families, but it also is a time to remember our loved ones that are no longer in our families or in this community.
“This tree is a reminder that somebody is missing,” said Triplett. “If you need somebody to talk to there are volunteers here or at our office (in Christiansburg).”
“Our volunteers will help you and give you support. Listen to you and help you establish new traditions. It may be a time to learn to do things differently,” he added.
Triplett went on to say that the turn out was the largest he had ever seen. He wanted to thank the NRV Mall and everyone for attending the event.
“We gather here to dedicate this special tree, whose lights remind us that love brings the greatest light to life,” said Triplett.
“Each ornament upon this tree is in remembrance of a special person whose spirit continues to bring light to the lives of family and friends. Just as stars in the night sky once provided direction to travelers through the darkness, so the light upon this tree assures us we can find our way through the darkness of grief,” said Triplett.
The ornaments on the tree’s branches displayed the names of loved ones now gone.
For a small donation, a “love light” is placed on the tree and remains there throughout the holiday season.
All proceeds from the Love Lights Program are donated to Good Samaritan Hospice, a local nonprofit that provides hospice care and grief support programs throughout New River Valley.
The Love Light Tree is located in the Belk wing of the New River Valley Mall through December 24. To purchase a “Love Light,” fill out a donation form at the mall’s customer service desk or mail the donation directly to Good Samaritan Hospice in the provided envelopes.
