Tree of Hope

The Tree of Hope is a symbolic Christmas tree at the Roswell Park Cancer Treatment Center in Kaminski Park.  Every year there is a special lighting ceremony to give hope to those receiving treatment for cancer. Roswell puts together this celebration to inspire and give courage to their patients. This year, patient Willow McMurray was chosen as Roswell’s Tree of Hope lighter. Long-term patient Willow had been diagnosed with pre-B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia along with a variety of other health problems. Although she was dealing with so much, she was chosen because she is always a light and inspiration to her family and doctors who have had the pleasure of getting to know her. Before the tree lighting took place, Darlene Ceglia’s Dance Project presented two festive dance performances in front of the tree. During the celebration refreshments and treats were provided along with carriage rides, visits with Santa, and a beautiful tree to look at. This celebration is inspiring to many and an encouraging way to come together as a community to support one another. The holidays can be a tough time of year, but this was a great way to shed some light on the darkness.