The Enduring Light: Greene County Medical Center’s Tree of Life

JEFFERSON, Iowa – While the world outside prepares for holiday celebrations, the season can bring with it powerful feelings for those missing a loved one. The Greene County Medical Center Foundation understands and offers a compassionate way to honor and remember those individuals who have shaped the lives of others through the annual Tree of Life campaign.

“The Tree of Life is more than just a beautifully decorated centerpiece in the lobby at Greene County Medical Center,” said Foundation Director, Nancy Houska. “It is a profound testament to the significance of enduring connections.”

For a donation of just $25, an ornament bearing the name of a cherished family member, friend or neighbor will be placed on the tree as a bright memory throughout the season. The Foundation will also host a special Tree of Life Ceremony on Wednesday, December 10 at 12:30 p.m. in the main lobby. The ceremony is a heartfelt opportunity to come together and celebrate the memories that bind us. It offers a time of reflection, includes a reading of the names placed on the tree and is followed by dessert. The featured speaker this year is Mary Jo Koch, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, a therapist/counselor with Greene County Medical Center Behavioral Health.

The funds generated by this initiative are also a legacy for local healthcare, aiding in the fulfillment of the Foundation’s mission to support the quality, compassionate care provided by the medical center. Your generous participation ensures continuing connections for those served through essential programs, new technology and healthcare scholarships for the next generation of caregivers. “Whether your gift is in memory of a loved one or in honor of a friend or community member, the act of giving has a tangible, lasting impact on every family we serve,” Houska said.

 To ensure your loved one is recognized, ornaments must be purchased by December 8. This can be done in-person at the Gift Garden shop in the main lobby, online at gcmchealth.com/foundation or by contacting Houska at 386-0108.