Festival of Trees Lights Up Columbia’s Holiday Spirit!
COLUMBIA, S.C. — As the evening sky turned a lovely shade of twilight, the aroma of festivity filled the air near downtown Columbia on Friday evening. Hundreds of cheerful faces gathered for the magical Festival of Trees fundraiser hosted by the Prisma Health Midlands Foundation. This annual event has become a beloved tradition as it heralds the official beginning of the holiday season.
A Heartwarming Purpose
According to Katie Williams from the Prisma Health Midlands Foundation, the Festival of Trees plays a vital role in supporting the children’s hospital. “Tonight is our Festival of Trees and donor celebration. This is our signature fundraising event for Prisma Health Children’s Hospital Midlands,” Williams shared, brimming with enthusiasm. The funds raised during this joyous evening go directly towards enhancing patient care and improving services for the youngest patients in need.
Williams explained, “It’s because of events like this that we can help enhance patient care and fundraising and philanthropy within the community. We can have, not just the latest and greatest in treatments and technology but also a lot of support programs for children.” Everyone in attendance felt the warmth and camaraderie present at such a heart-touching event.
Tree-tiful Displays
The event featured a dazzling display of decorated trees, each one more enchanting than the last. Local businesses and community members outdid themselves, creating a beautiful, festive atmosphere. These gorgeous trees were auctioned off during the evening, with the money raised directly benefiting the Prisma Health Children’s Hospital. A noteworthy contributor this year was the Beamer Family Foundation, who generously donated a staggering $50,000 to help make a difference.
Miracles in the Making
Among the crowd, there were heartwarming stories that illustrated just how crucial this fundraiser is. Tyler and Lindsey Priester shared their experience with Prisma Children’s Hospital that still gives them chills. “When my son was just shy of two years old, he tragically fell in our swimming pool. He was in the PICU for about eight or nine days and then went to the standard floor for therapy. My son is now nine years old. He has no developmental delays whatsoever, and so we are just so blessed,” Lindsey related, her eyes shimmering with gratitude. Tyler added, “You don’t know when you’re going to need the children’s hospital. We’re very fortunate to have it.”
Innovative Services and Joyful Mascots
Among the dedicated team at Prisma Children’s Hospital is Dr. Jeff Holloway, who operates a unique concussion clinic. “The concussion clinic is something that I think is unique. It’s one of the few in the state,” he explained. Dr. Holloway also delights children by taking on the role of the beloved hospital mascot, Buddy the Bear. “We enjoy having him there to interact with the kids, teach them a little bit about the hospital and things they might expect,” Holloway said with a smile, making learning about health a fun experience!
Gratitude and Success
This year’s Festival of Trees was met with overwhelming turnout, surpassing the expectations of the organizers. The air was filled with joy, excitement, and a sense of community that is so vital during the holiday season. The Prisma Health Midlands Foundation team expressed sincere gratitude to all those who turned out to support this noble cause.
With every tree sold and every heartfelt story shared, it’s clear that Columbia has once again come together to make a positive impact on the lives of children facing health challenges. The Festival of Trees isn’t just an event; it’s a beautiful reminder that kindness and community spirit shine the brightest during the holidays.
