Hospital’s Festive Tree Display Brightens Spirits This Holiday Season

The festive spirit at Baptist Anderson Regional Medical Center has reached new heights with a vibrant display of decorated Christmas trees. The hospital’s initiative features a competition among its various departments, each tasked with creating a unique three-foot Christmas tree inspired by classic holiday tunes. This year, the display includes a total of 26 trees, each adorned with creative elements and artistic touches, bringing joy to visitors and staff alike.

Dr. Troy Dukes, the director of pastoral care at Baptist Anderson, spearheaded this interdepartmental competition. The concept, inspired by a similar initiative from a Baptist hospital in Jackson, aims to foster a sense of community and uplift spirits within the hospital environment. According to Dukes, “This is a place of great struggle and trauma for people. Any bit of light and healing we can bring in, we try to do it.”

The trees are set up prominently in the first-floor lobby near the parking garage, inviting all who enter. Each department drew a song title at random, guiding their decoration theme. For instance, the “Feliz Navidad” tree bursts with brightly-colored hats and festive items, while the “Blue Christmas” tree features images of a smiling young Elvis. Other displays include whimsical interpretations of beloved holiday songs, such as a tree showcasing the “12 Days of Christmas” with humorous interpretations relevant to hospital life.

One standout decoration comes from the transportation department, which chose “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” as their theme. This tree showcases photos of Harold Brassfield, a staff member recognized for his exceptional singing talents. Another tree, representing “12 Days of Christmas,” features playful images of hospital security guards and modified lyrics that include “Four Code Calls, Three Security Monitors, Two Walkie Talkies, and a Badge in a Secure Tree.”

The public response to the display has been overwhelmingly positive. One volunteer noted, “A lot of people come through, and they come back. It’s very creative.” The trees not only provide a festive atmosphere but also serve as a reminder of the community’s resilience and spirit during the holiday season.

The tree display is expected to remain in place through the first week of January 2026, offering a festive respite for visitors and staff alike. In comparison, just a block away at Ochsner Rush Medical Center, a smaller holiday display can be found. While it features a few impressive trees, it does not match the scale of the elaborate setup at Baptist Anderson.

The holiday cheer at Ochsner was not lacking, as a receptionist was heard singing “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” illustrating the spirit of the season that permeates both medical facilities. Although the opportunity to showcase her piano skills was tempting, the reporter declined, opting instead to appreciate the festive atmosphere created by the hospital staff.

This year’s tree display at Baptist Anderson Regional Medical Center exemplifies the power of creativity and collaboration in fostering a sense of joy during challenging times. The initiative not only highlights the artistic talents of hospital staff but also serves as a beacon of hope for patients and families navigating the complexities of healthcare during the holiday season.