The Blue Ridge HealthCare Foundation continues a tradition this year with the Lights of Love event, set for Thursday, Dec. 5, at 5:30 p.m. at UNC Health Blue Ridge – Valdese hospital.
The event will feature the lighting of the Lights of Love Christmas tree in the lobby and outdoors.
Throughout part of October and November, the foundation sold symbolic lights in honor or in memory of friends, family members and loved ones to raise money. Lights of Love proceeds go to assist the UNC Health Blue Ridge Cancer Center with enhancing care and patient needs. Last year, the event raised $26,000.
Pictured is the Lights of Love Christmas tree on the campus of UNC Health Blue Ridge — Valdese in 2022.
“Through the years, we have heard many touching stories about why people purchase lights,†said Traci Riebel, executive director of the BRHC Foundation. “Many remember their parents who have passed away or honor co-workers or friends. These lights are for anyone.â€
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The names of those being honored and remembered by the lights will be on display throughout the holiday season on both the Valdese and Â鶹´«Ã½ UNC Health Blue Ridge campuses.
Proceeds from this event assist patients in need with medication, transportation to and from appointments, wigs, nutritional supplements and much more. These proceeds ensure that patients receive the necessary items to help with treatments and continued healing.
This year, the main sponsors for the event are Michael and Charle Bridges and Dr. Greg and Robin Jones. Bridges will speak during the event on Dec. 5. Other speakers will highlight how the money has been spent in the last year, including a patient who directly benefited from the fund.
Dr. Gerri Goertzen, a UNC Health Blue Ridge emergency physician, will play the harp. Other music will be provided by the East Burke High School Chamber Singers.
Light refreshments will be served after the ceremony, and attendees can view the newly installed Valdese General Hospital history wall. This permanent display of three panels highlights the history of the hospital, including its founding physicians, Dr. Yates S. Palmer, Dr. Cy K. Lynn and Dr. Frank O. Foard.
“This is always a special time of the year,†Riebel said. “It’s the season we celebrate the lives of our family, friends and neighbors — those still with us and those who are not. This is a wonderful way to spread light and love to all.â€
At the conclusion of the event, the names in honor and in memory will be posted on the foundation’s website at under Events and Lights of Love.
