The Aspire Marlette Regional Hospital Tree of Shining Love (TSL) has long been a cherished tradition—one that beautifully reflects the spirit of Christmas giving in our community. Each year, we take a moment to pause, reflect, and honor the blessings we have shared with our loved ones. Through the TSL tradition, we pay tribute to individuals who have touched our lives and made meaningful contributions to our Thumb-area communities. At the same time, we invest in strengthening our local healthcare services, creating an impact that reaches thousands throughout the year.
On December 7, the TSL event was held at The Heartlands Community Center in Marlette to honor and remember 143 cherished family members and friends in a warm and meaningful ceremony. We were especially privileged to recognize Ken and Pat McLaren—beloved, longtime members of the Marlette community whose generosity and devotion have left a remarkable legacy.
Ken, former owner of Simonson-McLaren Insurance Agency in Sandusky, was an avid hunter, active church member, and dedicated contributor to numerous civic clubs and boards. Pat, a long-serving member of the Marlette Regional Hospital Auxiliary, 1987 Citizen of the Year, gifted writer, and committed volunteer, poured her heart into every effort she undertook. Together, their love, service, and community spirit continue to inspire all who knew them.
As a special tribute, the names of all 143 honorees will be read on Sanilac Broadcasting this Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Please tune in to 97.7 WTGV/FM at 7:05 p.m. on Thursday, December 25, and again at 7:05 p.m. on Thursday, January 1. The reading, along with the video presentation of the 37th Annual Tree of Shining Love and recognition of our generous sponsors, will also be shared on our Facebook page. Follow Aspire Rural Health System on Facebook for updates.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the supporters of the 37th Annual Tree of Shining Love event. We are deeply grateful to our Community Relations Committee members, the musicians and speakers who contributed to the ceremony, and the many hands behind the scenes who made this event possible. Through the generosity of our donors and sponsors, we raised just over $18,000 for the state-of-the-art Ambulance Project at Aspire MRH.
In moments of crisis, every second counts. The assurance that an ambulance will arrive—equipped with the latest lifesaving technology—can make all the difference. This upgrade is not simply an improvement; it is an essential lifeline for our rural communities. With continued support, we can ensure rapid, reliable emergency response when it matters most. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for helping make our communities safer and healthier. Your support truly saves lives.
For more information about the Aspire Rural Health System Foundation and upcoming events, please visit aspirerhs.org/foundation or follow Aspire Rural Health System on Facebook. You may also contact the Foundation office at 989-635-4011.