Santa Claus would be proud of members of the Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital Auxiliary who are busily making their lists and checking them twice to make sure no one is left off the Love Lights Tree at the Demopolis hospital.

Now entering its 23rd year as one of the group’s most prosperous fundraisers, the Love Lights Tree event is a way in which area residents can honor those they love and respect.

What began with a small tree on the front lawn of the hospital 23 years ago, has grown to include a 24-foot tall tree covered in red and white lights that’s situated atop the facility, two trees inside the hospital lobby that are festooned with red and white ornaments bearing the names of those being honored, and a huge hall filled with wreaths sponsored by area businesses and individuals.

“This program has been wonderful for the Auxiliary, the hospital and the community,” said Rebecca Culpepper, Auxiliary president. “This is the perfect time of year to take a moment to remember those who have touched our lives in very special ways and what better way to honor them than by helping someone else.

“The proceeds from this event will be used to help fund our many projects here at the hospital,” she added. “We do everything from helping to purchase new equipment, to awarding scholarships to deserving students who wish to pursue a career in healthcare. The benefits of giving to this project are indeed long-lasting and rewarding.”

Slated for Wednesday, Nov. 28 at 5 p.m., the 23rd Annual Love Lights Tree Lighting Ceremony will once again open the events for Christmas on the River. This year’s COTR Special Child will be introduced at the event and will also have the honor of throwing the switch to light the tree.

A $3 donation will place a light on the tree in memory or in honor of your special person.

Two lights are available for a $5 donation. The white memory lights and the red honor lights will shine on the tree outside the hospital throughout the holiday season while another tree in the main lobby will display coordinating ornaments featuring the names of the honorees and the donors. Special ornaments in honor or memory of military personnel are also available.

The Love Lights Memory Book will be displayed in the hospital’s main lobby throughout the holiday season and will feature the names of honorees and donors.

Anyone wishing to purchase Love Lights should contact any member of the BWWMH Auxiliary or they may purchase lights in the BWWMH Gift Shop.