The ability to receive healthcare close to home plays a critical role in patient recovery, offering comfort through familiar surroundings, trusted caregivers, and the support of loved ones.
That message resonated strongly with the community during the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation’s (SFVHF) 2025 Tree of Lights Campaign, which raised an impressive $155,589 to support local healthcare. The funds will be used to purchase essential equipment and comfort items for the medical unit at St. Francis Memorial Hospital- investments that are not covered by government funding but are vital to patient care. Above from left: SFMH Staff Vice President & Chief Nursing Executive Sherri Cope, Scheduling Coordinator Sharon Chippior, Manager of Finance Jeff Brown, RPN Jane Johnson, Accounting Clerk Janet Trebinskie, Physiotherapy Aide Lindsey Stamplecoskie, Inpatient Unit Ward Clerk Denise Bird and SFVHF Administrative Assistant Paige Mask. (Photo submitted)
During the past holiday season, the Foundation, with the help of a dedicated team of volunteers, mailed more than 3,100 Tree of Lights letters to donors across the region. The campaign highlighted the story of Marnie Williamson, who was seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident and later transferred back to St. Francis Memorial Hospital to recover.
Returning to St. Francis made a significant difference for Williamson and her family. Being closer to home reduced the strain of travel, allowed her husband Ted to be at her side daily, and provided the emotional comfort that supported her healing journey. The story inspired many donors to give generously throughout the campaign.
Funds raised through the Tree of Lights Campaign will support critical medical equipment and patient comfort items that enhance safety, dignity, and recovery for those relying on care at St. Francis Memorial Hospital.
“On behalf of the staff and patients at St. Francis Memorial Hospital, thank you to our donors for supporting this incredibly important Tree of Lights Campaign,” said Greg McLeod, Chief Operating Officer at St. Francis Memorial Hospital and Integrated Vice President of Capital Planning, Infrastructure and Environmental Services. “Their generosity is helping us purchase essential medical equipment for our Medical Unit, including new patient beds, a VAC wound healing machine, ceiling lifts, and an automated dispensing unit. As government funding does not cover capital equipment, community support is vital. Because of our donors, our teams are better equipped to provide safe, high-quality care close to home, ensuring our hospital remains strong for generations to come.”
Donor support allows healing to remain local, keeps families connected during vulnerable moments, and ensures healthcare teams have the tools they need to deliver the best possible care.
“The Foundation is deeply grateful for the generosity of its supporters and remains committed to raising funds for St. Francis Memorial Hospital, Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care, and Valley Manor in the year ahead,” SFVHF Executive Director Erin Gienow said.
For more information about the Foundation, visit www.sfvhfoundation.com.
St.Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation(2026,Jan.21) Tree of Lights Results [article & photo submission)