Over 20 people attended the Tree of Life ceremony at Greene County Medical Center Wednesday.

The event was to honor loved ones who have passed away. The ceremony included an original poem by Greene County Medical Center Foundation Past-President Tori Riley, followed by an inspirational message from Special Clinic Registered Nurse Charlene Wolfe. She talked about being around others during the holiday season and noticing an empty chair where a loved one sat, but not focusing negatively on that individual not being in the room.

“And if that’s what we dwell on then we run the risk of missing the truth which is that chair is not empty at all. We may not see with our eyes the presence of that one who is the focus of our grief, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t there.”

Foundation Director Nancy Houska then listed off the names of those who passed away that were submitted. She described her impression of the event, as this was her first time being a part of it.

“It was an honor to be a part of such a cherished and annual event. Many people go through several stages of grief, and we hope our ceremony brought hope and healing, along with remembering those we lost and honoring those we cherish.”    

Attendees had the opportunity to purchase a $25 ornament that was placed on the Tree of Life, which was in the main lobby of the medical center.