Lights of Love have illuminated holiday trees in Winchester since 1988,
so the December 1 tree lighting marked the 30th celebration of this annual
event. A partnership between the Winchester Medical Center Auxiliary and
Blue Ridge Hospice, the Lights of Love benefit event has, over the years,
raised hundred of thousands for these two organizations. Each year the
celebration recognizes those who live in our memories and those who are
significant in our daily lives, and this year's honorary tree lighter,
longtime Auxiliary member Shannon Gemma, threw the switch, lighting up
the faces of all in attendance.
Shannon has been a hospital volunteer and an Auxiliary member for 23 years.
She began as a Gift Shop volunteer and has held several leadership roles
with Auxiliary Board. She is a past president of the WMC Auxiliary, treasurer
and chair of the Lights of Love program. Under her leadership, Lights
of Love generated the largest amount of money to date. She has donated
4,949 volunteer service hours since 1994!
Once again, the community generously supported this project in 2017, raising
$42,000 to be equally shared between the Auxiliary and Blue Ridge Hospice.
The Auxiliary will use its portion toward their $800,000 pledge to the
WMC Cancer Center. This project is possible because of the time and talents
of volunteers and employees from Winchester Medical Center and Blue Ridge
Hospice. Thanks to all who supported this memorable event!