MercyOne Genesis Hospice to light its Remembrance Tree

To shine a light on the region’s need for quality hospice care access, MercyOne Genesis Hospice will once again light its Remembrance Tree.

The tree-lighting, a two-decade tradition, will be at 6 p.m., Monday, Nov. 9, outside the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, 2546 Tech Drive, Bettendorf. Family and friends are welcome to gather for an emotional service featuring readings, music and moments of reflection.

Parking will be available at 2535 Maplecrest Road, adjacent to the hospice house — a shuttle will be available. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and dress for the weather. Hot chocolate and cookies will be provided.

The MercyOne Genesis community event ushers in the holiday season while honoring the memories of loved ones who have passed.

“For many families, the Remembrance Tree is a meaningful way to honor and celebrate the lives of those they love and miss,” said Sara Hodgini, the chief development officer of MercyOne Genesis Foundation. “Each light represents a cherished memory, and the event brings our community together in a powerful expression of remembrance, support, and hope. It is a beautiful reminder that no one has to walk the journey of grief alone.”

Since 2004, MercyOne Genesis Hospice Remembrance Trees have honored more than 7,000 individuals and raised more than $100,000 for hospice care. For some, the tree lighting has become a family tradition – a time to pause during the busy holiday season, gather, and remember, supported by others.

Isabel Bloom has designed a special “Your Love Bee Longs in My Heart” ornament to benefit MercyOne Genesis Hospice Care. Orders can be made online at MercyOne.org/tree and are due Sunday, Nov. 8. CREDIT ISABEL BLOOM “The number of attendees continues to grow each year, underscoring the impact this tradition has on so many families throughout our community,” Ms. Hodgini said. “During a season that can be especially difficult for those who are grieving, we hope this gathering offers comfort, connection and a moment to reflect on the lives that continue to inspire us every day.”

The tree-lighting also has become a tradition for MercyOne Genesis Hospice team members, who take pride in all the Remembrance Tree represents and plan the event to honor the hospice patients who have touched their lives.

Ornament supports hospice The hospice has partnered again with Isabel Bloom, based in downtown Davenport, to create a limited-edition ornament for the event.

This year’s ornament is entitled “Your Love Bee Longs in My Heart.” Ornament sales support MercyOne Genesis Hospice Care.

Ornaments are $20 and available for purchase online through Sunday, Nov. 8. Pick-up will be on Monday, Nov. 9, at the tree lighting. After the event, they can be picked up at the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House.

The community is invited to honor loved ones’ memories and support the community’s continuing need for hospice care by donating to illuminate the MercyOne Genesis Hospice Remembrance Tree. To purchase an ornament online or donate, visit MercyOne.org/tree or text RTREE to 41444.

MercyOne Genesis Hospice to light its Remembrance Tree

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