Grateful patients and their families, City of Hope staff and physicians, and Orange County clergy and community leaders joined together at the advanced cancer center in Irvine to offer comfort to those who need it most and to uplift all who are impacted by cancer.
“For those who work in oncology care — and specifically here at City of Hope — light holds its own meaning — like a beacon in the darkness, we offer hope to those who hear those dreaded words, ‘You have cancer,’” said Annette Walker, president of City of Hope Orange County. “To our patients who have joined us today: You are our light. You are the reason we get up in the morning, and the reason we come to work. You are the reason for everything we do.”
Cantor Amy Robinson Katz of Congregation B’nai Israel and City of Hope Orange County chaplain Frank Munoz, Ph.D., led an interfaith ceremony honoring Orange County’s diverse faith traditions, offering reflections and prayers. The menorah was lit by Seth A. Cohen, M.D., a City of Hope Orange County urologic surgeon and urogynecologist who practices at the cancer center.
Spiritual care plays a vital role in the healing process, said Edward S. Kim, M.D., physician-in-chief of City of Hope Orange County. “We understand that the journey with cancer can often feel isolating, overwhelming, and uncertain, but spiritual care offers a source of comfort and connection, reminding us that we are not alone,” said Dr. Kim. “Tonight, as we light this tree, let it be a reminder that even in the toughest times, we can find moments of peace, moments of hope, and moments of connection.”
A staff volunteer choir sang holiday carols, while patients and their families joined together to fill the tree’s branches with hand-decorated ornaments bearing their heartfelt messages. Seeing the glimmering ornaments on display together held special meaning for City of Hope Orange County palliative care nurse practitioner and breast cancer survivor Barbara Greenwell.
In fall 2024, Greenwell rang the survivor bell at the cancer center after she successfully completed treatment there. The tree and menorah lighting ceremony was another full circle moment for Greenwell as she was surrounded by the light of her own coworkers.
“When I think of the word light I think of hope, family and celebration, which makes me think of my experience as a patient at City of Hope,” said Greenwell. “In my practice, I have had many patients tell me how incredible the City of Hope staff are. But until you are sick, scared and vulnerable, it is hard to explain the importance of our staff’s caring and kindness.
“As a palliative care nurse practitioner, I want people to identify their own goals and reason to celebrate,” said Greenwell. “It does not have to be at the end of a treatment, but it can be any reason. Celebrate by ringing the bell whenever you want, literally or figuratively. It is important to celebrate the small things because the small things are not small.”
The tree’s glow will illuminate the entryway to City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center throughout the holiday season.
Also read:
Grateful patient gifts handmade hats to City of Hope Orange County
Gifted makeovers at City of Hope Orange County offer patients “Beauty in Hope”
In the mood for festive flavor? Try these healthy holiday recipes
When it comes to cancer in Orange County, it’s Hope First. Visit CityofHope.org/OC or call 888-333-HOPE (4673).
