Lights of Love Tradition Continues but Moves to Virtual Event for Health and Safety During COVID-19 Pandemic

LATROBE, PA, October 15, 2020… The Latrobe Area Hospital Aid Society (LAHAS) knows how meaningful the Lights of Love holiday tradition has become to its members and the community at large. Rather than forego this special fund-raising event that honors and memorializes loved ones because of COVID-19, LAHAS will celebrate virtually this year, and post both a pre-recorded ceremony and the donor recognition on Excela Health’s public website, www.excelahealth.org. The links become live at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 1, and will remain available through Jan. 8, 2021, for viewing. While there will be no public gathering or interior trees trimmed with nametags of honorees during this 33rd annual event, the exterior tree near the main entrance of Excela Health Latrobe Hospital will be illuminated throughout this same time period, with each light a reminder of the gifts given.

“In this challenging year of the pandemic, it has been difficult to look forward, as
we slowed our pace of life and remained in our homes. Through it all, we have become more keenly aware of the special people in our lives and the time we spend with them,” noted Nancy McKinnon, LAHAS president. “Remembering loved ones who have passed and honoring those with whom we still share our lives with a Lights of Lovelight is more important now than ever before.”

There are several ways to participate. Previous donors have been mailed a
brochure with instructions on how to complete it. As in the past, individuals wishing to
contribute may do so via PayPal online by visiting www.excelahealth.org/lightsoflove.
Donation forms also are available on the site for downloading and mailing with a
personal check to the Lights of Love committee. The Minimum suggested contribution
online is $8.50. Individuals who wish for a pre-printed “Lights of Love” brochure, or LAHAS membership application may call 724-537-1733, or email lahas@excelahealth.org.

Gifts are welcome through year’s end and donors may designate people to whom
the auxiliary will send “Lights of Love” acknowledgment cards. The online honor roll
will be updated periodically throughout the holiday season once it is posted on
December 1; however, early submissions are most appreciated.

Lights of Love is one of many community outreach activities initiated by LAHAS,
whose mission is to support the hospital and the communities it serves through
education, fund-raising, and volunteer service.

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