"Lights for Life" Benefits Valley Baptist Health System, Patients During Holiday Season

HARLINGEN, TEXAS - Nov. 29, 2004 –  Those who would like to help terminally-ill patients, other patients, and the many community services of Valley Baptist Health System can do so by participating in this year’s “Lights for Life” campaign.

The 13th Annual “Lights for Life” kicked off with a tree-lighting celebration Nov. 29, at the East Tower Entrance of Valley Baptist Medical Center - Harlingen.  During the ceremony, members of the Farris family, including Bobby and Robin Farris and their daughter HollyAnne, flicked the switch to light the Christmas tree outside the East Tower. The Farris’ are being honored for their generous support of Valley Baptist’s long tradition of providing quality and compassionate care to patients from throughout the Rio Grande Valley.

“Tonight we have the privilege of honoring the Farris family, who has actively supported Valley Baptist and our Harlingen community in so many ways,” said James Springfield, Valley Baptist President and CEO. “Their financial support and involvement in numerous charitable projects has benefited our community tremendously. And soon, a very exciting announcement will be made that will continue to impact the lives of many in the community through their continued generosity.”

Mr. Farris serves on the board for the Valley Baptist Foundation.

A donation to help light the holiday tree may be made in memory of a friend or relative, in celebration of the birth of a child, in honor of someone special who lives, or as a Christmas or birthday gift. Donations may be designated to a specific area of the health system, such as Valley Baptist’s Sandi Jo Funk Hospice Program, Heart & Vascular Services, Cancer Program, Family Practice Mission Outreach or where the need is greatest.

In addition to the beautiful holiday tree lighting, the celebration included Christmas caroling by the Treasure Hills Elementary School Choir and First Baptist Church Choir. Children were treated to a special visitor … Santa Clause himself was driven in by representatives of Boggus Ford!

For more information on donations for the Lights for Life program, please contact the Valley Baptist Foundation office at (956) 389-1614.