The stunning structure had not been accessible for several months due to building work in the area and it was recognised how upsetting that had been for many who could not to see their leaves in situ.
Now that work has been concluded more than 80 people were invited to attend an outdoor viewing on Friday (1 March).
Despite pouring rain people of all ages huddled under brollies to hear the King’s Lynn Rock Choir sing selection of music ahead of hospital Chief Executive Alice Webster delivering a welcome speech.
She told the gathering: “We felt it was really important to invite you to this event to make sure you had a chance to see the tree in all its splendour and to take some time to pause and reflect.
“Your leaves are among 200 that have now been engraved and installed on the tree which will be an enduring reminder to all of us of love and loss.
“This tree will remain here at the heart of The QEH now and in the future and I have to say it is thanks to our hospital League of Friends who funded the tree and commissioned sculptor Mark Reed to create this unique and poignant artwork.”
Chaplain Jonathon Mellor then gave a small reading before the Choir, which supports the work of the hospital’s charity – particularly the Cancer Care Treatment Fund – rounded things off with their rendition of Robbie Williams’ Angels.
Guests were invited to spend time in reflection with family and friends at the Tree of Life and then enjoy a warming cuppa at the Macmillan Cancer Care Wellbeing Centre with guests who included Carole Crake, Honorary Secretary of the League of Friends, QEH Non-Executive Director Alan Brown and Lead Governor Antonia Hardcastle.
Ends.
Notes to editors;
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