Community Invited to Remember Loved Ones on Baystate Wing’s Tree of Love

PALMER — As the holiday season approaches, the Baystate Wing Auxiliary will set up its annual Tree of Love, which was created to honor and remember loved ones and features ornaments that can be purchased, personalized with names in memory of family and friends and placed on the tree.

“The Tree of Love gives our community members a chance to remember loved ones during the holiday season,” said Evelyn Glabicky, president of the Baystate Wing Auxiliary. “The holidays are upon us, and we understand how difficult the holiday season can be on those who have lost loved ones. But special days can also provide opportunities to remember the good times that were once shared with loved ones. They give us a chance to think about, talk about, or do something special to honor someone who continues to be an important part of our lives. For some families, placing the name of a family member on an ornament and being a part of the Tree of Love brings them some comfort. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to challenge us to be creative around spending time together and honoring loved ones that have passed. We hope our community members will consider joining our Tree of Love as a way of celebrating them.”

The ornaments may be purchased for $5 for a single name and $10 for a family. The decorated Tree of Love will be displayed in the lobby located on the ground floor of the hospital.

“The Tree of Love is our annual tradition that warms our hearts as we remember loved ones and celebrate their lives,” said Carol Doyle, a member of the Auxiliary who coordinates this special event. “All proceeds benefit the Baystate Wing Auxiliary, which in turns donates needed equipment and other items to the hospital for the benefit of patients. In addition, this year the Auxiliary awarded scholarships totaling $5,000 to five local high-school students pursuing a career in healthcare, an annual tradition that our Auxiliary members are particularly proud of.”

For over 65 years, the Auxiliary has supported Baystate Wing Hospital through its sponsorship of special events and gift-shop sales. This diverse group of women and men includes teachers, nurses, business owners, and retirees who live in many different communities and are united by a shared commitment to support the mission of the hospital.

For more information about the Tree of Love or to purchase an ornament, call Carol Doyle at (413) 267-9219, or purchase Tree of Love ornaments at the Baystate Wing Gift Shop located on the first floor.