The annual Tree of Life Lighting Ceremony on Dec. 6 will include a visit from Santa.

TIFTON — The Tree of Life lighting ceremony will be held 6 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 6, at the Tift Regional Medical Center (TRMC) Anita Stewart Oncology Center.

It is sponsored by the Tifton Junior Woman’s Club,

Lights on the tree can be purchased in honor or memory of a special person, with all proceeds benefiting the patients of Hospice of Tift Area and the TRMC Anita Stewart Oncology Center who need extra support.

“It wouldn’t be the holiday season without the Tree of Life,” said Kristy Daniels, manager of Hospice of Tift Area. “This is the 33rd year of this annual event. We want everyone in the community to bring their families and friends. Together we will enjoy a moving candle-lighting ceremony and wonderful, live holiday music. And, of course, we’ll have a visit from Santa Claus. Afterwards, everyone is invited to enjoy complimentary refreshments.”

Daniels said that purchasing a light for the Tree of Life in honor or memory of a person is a tax-deductible gift which will help Tift Regional’s hospice and cancer patients with special needs. “Various giving levels are available,” she said. “If you are looking for a Christmas gift for family members, friends, co-workers or clients, purchase a light in their honor or in memory of someone close to them. You’ll be benefiting a great cause.”

Daniels said the Tree of Life fund assists the hospital’s cancer or hospice patients who may have difficulty paying utility bills due to financial constraints or need special comforts while undergoing treatment.

“These are just examples of how the Tree of Life helps our patients and their families as they undergo a challenging time,” said Daniels. “It has really touched the lives of many people in our community.”

To contribute to the Tree of Life, visit www.tiftregional.com/TOL. Contributions are being accepted until Dec. 31. Call 229-353-6330 for more information.

In years past, the Tree of Life Lighting Ceremony has been held on the front lawn of TRMC. Since construction will be starting in December on the new emergency center and patient tower at TRMC, the event has been moved to the hospital’s cancer facility. The TRMC Anita Stewart Oncology Center is located at 1623 Madison Avenue.