Suburban Community Hospital Pays Tribute to Employees Who Passed Away

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Suburban Community Hospital Pays Tribute to Employees Who Have Passed Away

East Norriton, PA (May 24, 2022)–Recently, Suburban Community Hospital planted a dogwood tree honoring employees who have lost their lives. The tree represents life, even those that are lost.

“It’s a symbol of their lives that will continue to grow and live on here at the hospital,” said Kristen Piano, patient experience coordinator, Suburban Community Hospital. “It’s a way for all of us to watch something beautiful grow and will be a reminder of those no longer with us.”

The ceremony, which took place in the outside courtyard, provided a time of reflection for visitors and team members. When passing by the memorial tree, individuals will not only remember colleagues who have passed on, but will also remember that, even during periods of mourning, time is a precious gift that is not to be wasted.

Rev. McCreedy of St. Paul Church in Norristown began the service with an invocation. Following the invocation, Michael Motte, chief executive officer, Suburban Community Hospital, opened the memorial and spoke of its purpose, as well as thanking everyone in attendance.

“The people we honor have invested a portion of their lives to Suburban Community Hospital,” said Michael Motte, chief executive officer, Suburban Community Hospital. “Every one of our employees has played a part in making our hospital what it is today. It’s important to recognize their contributions. We not only mourn our losses, but we also celebrate their memories.”

The highlight of the ceremony was the dedication of the memorial plaque, a powerful symbol of the passage of time and has a different meaning for every individual. The inscription on the plaque marking the tree reads: “Our Remembrance Tree…This tree has been planted in dedication of the employees that have passed away. We will always remember them. Their light lives on within the hospital and all that we do here.”

Motte, Rev., McCreedy, and the family members, and colleagues of those who passed, helped lead the ceremony.

“For those that lost loved ones, the plaque may be a symbol of a life cut too short. However, it also symbolizes that this challenging time will eventually pass,” remarked Jim Hazlett, chief nursing officer, Suburban Community Hospital. “It also reminds us of the time we spent with those we loved and lost. And finally, it reminds us to appreciate and enjoy the time we still have with those we love.”

The hospital arranged a medley of “Amazing Grace” and “Hallelujah,” which was played at the memorial. These individuals’ names were also featured on the event programs for the families.

Each staff member that passed away had either a family member or co-worker speak on their behalf.

Flowers were then placed around the tree, while Michael Motte closed out the memorial service.