Dec. 18, 2019 –Lights of Courage is the
Southeast Georgia Health System Foundation’s newest fundraising event. And while it’s not the largest
fundraiser, it serves as a time of reflection and remembrance for family
and friends during the holiday season.
“Often times, working in health care provides us the clarity to witness
courage in the midst of enormous discomfort, sadness and hardship,” said
Michael D. Scherneck, president and CEO, Southeast Georgia Health System, during the inaugural
tree lighting ceremony. “Courage empowers us all to confront the
constant hurdles experienced throughout our lives.”
Prior to the event, which was held at
Nunnally House earlier this month, community members and Health System staff purchased
lights for the Lights of Courage tree to honor a special person in their
life. Scherneck stated, “The lights on the tree serve as symbolic
gestures memorializing loved ones.”
During the ceremony Krista Robitz, director, Development, Southeast Georgia
Health System Foundation, read the names representing each light. “All
of the names read hold a very special place in the hearts of those gathered
here tonight,” said Robitz. “Thank you for recognizing, remembering
and honoring these loved ones through Lights of Courage.”
Lucia Gumaer had the distinct honor of being the inaugural tree lighter
for the event. Gumaer is a Foundation board member and a devoted donor.
She and her late husband Mike, graciously donated the funds to provide
the beautifully landscaped Gumaer Gardens located at
Nunnally House.
“Courage is having the strength to navigate an illness, face a loss
and provide loving care,” Gumaer expressed. “The last are
all too familiar for me. I’m honored to light the tree in memory
of my late husband Mike Gumaer. The lighting of this tree has a different
meaning for each of us.”
After asking those in attendance to hold hands, Gumaer brightened the room
by lighting the symbolic tree. She then closed out the evening reminding
attendees “to remember what the Gumaer Gardens are dedicated to:
hope, health and healing. May you all have a wonderful holiday season
with light in your hearts until we meet here again next year.”
To learn more about the Health System Foundation and upcoming events, contact
Krista Robitz, director,
Southeast Georgia Health System Foundation, at 912-466-3360 visit
wearethefoundation.org.