On January 4th, 1996, the 11th anniversary of Colleen Giblin's death, the trustees, members ofthe board of advisors, hospital personnel, supporters and friends of the Foundation took part in the unveiling of the "Tree of Hope." As Colleen's life continues to be a source of hope to all, the Tree of Hope is a reminder of the hope the Colleen Giblin Research Laboratories bring to children affected with neurological and cancer disorders worldwide. Dr. Darryl DeVivo, Director of Pediatric Neurology and Medical Advisor to The Colleen Giblin Foundation, and Dr. Herbert Pardes, Vice President for Health Sciences and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine both spoke on behalf of the Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center and the Colleen Giblin Research Laboratories. They addressed the dedication and commitment of Paul and Vickie Giblin and the volunteers of the Colleen Giblin Foundation. Paul Giblin spoke for his family and the foundation, asking everyone to remember his baby Colleen in their prayers. He reminded those present that by supporting the efforts and mission of the Foundation, he and Vickie's dream would someday become a reality -- that no family or child would suffer the same loss that they have endured. The Tree of Hope is a permanent six and a half foot work of art outside the Laboratories at the Neurological Institute at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. The tree is made up of brass leaves and rocks engraved with loving messages honoring or memorializing a special person. This outstanding project was conceived and executed by former executive director Susan Calitri. She is to be thanked for her dedication to the completion of the Tree of Hope. Leaves and rocks are still available. For more information call (201) 262-2463.
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