North Iowa Hospice Tree of Life to be virtual

A holiday tradition to remember loved ones who have passed on is moving online this year.

MercyOne North Iowa Hospice announced that it will host its annual Tree of Life event virtually on Facebook Live on Tuesday, Dec. 22 at 6 p.m. North Iowa Hospice typically hosts a Tree of Life event in Hampton.

The Tree of Life event places lights on trees to honor and remember those who have been lost.

This year, the event will begin with a main video featuring testimonials, music and a lighting of the tree. After the main video, links will be available for reading of the names for each specific location, including Hampton.

Brodie Long, Office Manager at MercyOne North Iowa Hospice, said that he understands an online event isn’t quite the same as seeing the tree in person, but added that the virtual format will allow donors from outlying states participate in the event.

“More people can tune in from farther away,” he said. “We’ve had people from Alaska, California, New York…donate and took part but couldn’t attend in past years. By hosting virtually, it’s giving us a wider audience.”

Long said he’s pleased that the Tree of Life ceremony can still be held in some way, as the holidays are a time for celebration but can also be difficult on those who have lost a loved one.

“Losing a loved one can be tough on anyone regardless of what year it is,” he said. “This is a way we can still help honor loved ones and be there for support and remembrance.”