In 1991, Nancy Emerson, then director of major projects for the Duke Cancer Institute’s Development Office, suggested that the DCPSP sponsor a Tree of Hope "that would symbolize the love we hold in our hearts for someone special and the hope we have that the fight against cancer will soon be won."

The Tree of Hope, planted in the Duke Cancer Patient Support Program’s Seese-Thornton Garden of Tranquility, honors those individuals facing cancer, those who have faced cancer, and those who have made a difference in their lives.

Our annual Tree of Hope Lighting Ceremony honors those whose lives have been touched by cancer. The evening’s program includes a short reception, and the ceremonial lighting of the Nancy Weaver Emerson Tree of Hope in the DCPSP’s Seese-Thornton Garden of Tranquility.

This magnificent holly tree and its lights symbolize the strength and hope felt by those coping with the impact of cancer on their lives. The light in its uppermost branch, the Light of Hope, recognizes one individual for his or her work in helping people cope with the challenges of cancer.

A gift to the Tree of Hope is an excellent way for you to honor or remember loved ones, caregivers, family members, friends, volunteers, and the Light of Hope honoree.

For each person you choose to recognize, a light will be nestled among the supporting boughs of the holly tree. This year, Tribute cards will be sent directly to you for each person you are honoring or remembering. You may add your own personal message on the cards before mailing to family, friends and loved ones.

We invite you, those you are honoring, and your families to attend the 22nd Annual Tree of Hope Lighting Ceremony on Wednesday, December 12th, in the Duke Cancer Center atrium located at 20 Duke Medicine Circle. The evening will begin at 5:30pm with a reception followed by a short program, starting at 6:00pm, during which the Light of Hope award will be presented to Ms. Cindy Atkins.

 
Following the program, those in attendance will proceed to the DCPSP’s Seese-Thornton Garden of Tranquility for the ceremonial lighting of the Nancy Weaver Emerson Tree of Hope.

If you are interested in making a gift to the Tree of Hope to honor a loved one, a member of the medical staff, or others, please visit our online giving page at www.gifts.duke.edu/cancersupport or call 919-684-4497.