In addition to being a joyous time of the year, the holiday season can also be a difficult time for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one. The entire community is invited to a special tree lighting ceremony at Adventist Health Glendale (West Tower Lobby) on Thursday, Dec. 6 at 5:30 p.m. The hospital is located at 1509 Wilson Terrace, Glendale.

People who wish to honor their loved ones in a special tribute program during the tree lighting ceremony can do so by sponsoring a tree light or ornament with a tax-deductible donation to Adventist Health Glendale. Each light and ornament on the Christmas tree will represent a loved one whose life is being honored or memorialized. The names of loved ones will be included in the Light Up a Life tribute booklet. Angel ornament honorees will have their names announced during the tribute presentation at the event. The tree top star has been named in memory of Victoria Marsh Tapper/ Dr. Marguerite Marsh will be present at the event to light the tree.

“This event is a beautiful and meaningful way to acknowledge the beginning of the holiday season, to offer support and love to those who have lost a loved one, and to honor the special people in our lives,” said Adventist Health Glendale Foundation President Irene Bourdon.

Proceeds from the tree lighting ceremony will benefit hospice and bereavement support programs. Hospice services enhance the quality of remaining life by ensuring the dignity of the patient, supporting the family throughout the process and easing the burden and worry of end-of-life care with clinical and professional expertise and compassion.

The Beyond Loss Bereavement Support program helps people through the grieving process with support groups, education, newsletters and individual counseling. The ministry also provides the highest level of professional training and certification for bereavement facilitators.

Everyone is invited to attend. Call the Adventist Health Glendale Foundation at (818) 409-8055 with questions.

To make an online gift, visit www.adventisthealth.org/glendale/giving.