In the News

"Lights for Life" Benefits Patients, Rekindles Christmas Spirit at Valley Baptist

HARLINGEN, TEXAS - Nov. 29, 2005 – The Christmas spirit at Valley Baptist – along with the true spirit of giving – has been rekindled anew through the 14th annual “Lights for Life” celebration outside Valley Baptist Medical Center-Harlingen.

The lighting of a giant Christmas tree outside VBMC-Harlingen's East Tower is spurring help for terminally-ill patients and their families and other needy patients, as well as greatly-needed services provided to the community by Valley Baptist. The Bob Dunkin family of Harlingen, generous supporters of health care in the Valley, flipped the switch to light the Christmas tree Nov. 29.

“We wouldn’t have what we have here at Valley Baptist without the Dunkin families and families like them,” said  James Springfield, FACHE, President and CEO for Valley Baptist Health System.

The Dunkin family has a long history of supporting Valley Baptist and the Harlingen community. Bob Dunkin has served on various boards for Valley Baptist since 1994. He currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors for Valley Baptist Health System. Bob “Bobby” Dunkin II serves on the Valley Baptist Foundation Board. Bobby also brought the idea of starting a Foundation Circle in 2004.  The Circle is now a thriving group of more than 50 young couples who met in the Magnolia Grille Restaurant at VBMC-Harlingen prior to the tree-lighting ceremony. First Community Bank has also been a contributor to the hospital for many years, most recently as a sponsor for this year’s Children’s Gala.

Mr. Dunkin recalled how his children and a grandchild were born at Valley Baptist. “The doctors and staff of this hospital are the ones who make this a unique place,” Mr. Dunkin added. “I thank them for the quality and compassionate care they bring to the people of the Valley.”

Donations to help light the annual holiday tree -- and to help kindle the light of hope during the holidays -- 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.

The Lights for Life celebration also featured Christmas caroling by the First Baptist Church Choir and the St. Anthony’s Catholic School Choir; an invocation by VBHS Vice President for Pastoral Services Joe Perez; refreshments including cookies, punch, hot cider and coffee; and an early visit from Santa Claus, who was gleefully greeted by the many Valley children attending the event.

For more information or for information on making donations for the Lights for Life campaign or other worthwhile projects sponsored by the Valley Baptist Foundation, please contact the Foundation office at (956) 389-1614 or by e-mail at foundation@valleybaptist.net.