Lighting the Tree of Hope
Our annual ceremony to light the Tree of Hope took place yesterday (Wednesday 14 December) at Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
Patients and staff gathered to watch Ben Travis, Chief Executive, turn on the Christmas tree lights, while Councillor Dominic Mbang, Deputy Mayor of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, delivered a special message to staff.
The crowd enjoyed mince pies donated by our partner, ISS Facilities, while the Trust Choir and children from St Thomas More Catholic Comprehensive School gave a wonderful performance of Christmas carols. People also tied their messages of hope onto the tree, taking the time to remember loved ones.
Reverend Emmanuel Kormi, Acting Head of Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care thanked everyone for attending and added: “It’s been a fantastic event. As we look back over the year, we remember those whom we love and who are close to us. We might also remember difficult times. Whatever our experiences, the Tree of Hope reminds us to remember in love and gratitude. Our chaplaincy services are available to people of all faiths and none, so please contact us in both the good and bad times.”
Deputy Mayor of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Councillor Dominic Mbang added: “On behalf of the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Greenwich Councillor Leo Fletcher, thank you for inviting me to this special ceremony. We want to say thank you and express our gratitude for the excellent work you do every day at Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust and be proud of this great Trust you work for.”
