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24th Tree of Hope Lighting Honors Cancer Patients, Families and Volunteers

tree lighting

The grounds of the Duke Cancer Institute glowed Thursday night with 100 candles and 3,000 tiny lights for the 24th Tree of Hope ceremony.

The annual event honors those who have been affected by cancer while raising money for the Duke Cancer Patient Support Program. Donors contributed $10 for each light on the Tree of Hope to honor a loved one. The holly tree is located directly outside the cancer center.

Thursday’s ceremony also recognized Connie and Elliot Bossen, two longtime volunteers and supporters of the Duke Cancer Patient Support Program, with the 2014 Light of Hope honor.

Connie Bossen began volunteering with the Duke Cancer Patient Support Program in 2000 and spends every Tuesday at the cancer center’s Belk Boutique, which offers wigs, scarves and other enhancements for patients during treatment. She also serves on the support program’s advisory board. She and her twin Carolyn created the Niquelle Collection, a line of headwear for patients who have lost their hair.

The Tree of Hope is one of the Duke Cancer Patient Support Program’s longest running events, raising more than $40,000 a year. The program helps more than 7,000 patients with individual and family counseling, support groups, and other resources.

Photos by Shawn Rocco. Below, Connie Bossen listens to her husband Elliot Bossen.  Bottom:Brooke Green leans on her mom Jennifer Green.

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