Impact Stories
Ascension Borgess Foundation
Tree of Love celebrates 40 years of saving lives
In 1985, a small but passionate group of volunteers at Borgess Hospital launched what would become a life-saving tradition now entering its 40th year. The Tree of Love, a fundraising initiative born from the Borgess Service League, has evolved from a campaign to support varying hospital programs, into a cornerstone of early breast cancer detection efforts in our community for four decades.
The idea for the Tree of Love Campaign came from longtime Service League member Evelyn Zeigler, whose vision was brought to life with the support of Borgess and the volunteer coordinator Cheryl Westbrook. Fellow League members Deb Ryan and Norma Dunham were also instrumental in shaping the early success of the campaign allowing it to grow into the lifesaving program it is today.
The Borgess Tree of Love campaign has provided thousands of patients with access to mammograms and vital follow-up care when needed—ensuring that breast cancer is detected as early as possible. This life-saving work continues today, fueled by community support.
You are invited to join us in celebrating this remarkable milestone by making a gift to the Tree of Love campaign and attending the kickoff and tree lighting ceremonies.
Together, we honor 40 years of compassion, commitment, and countless lives saved.
Please join us at these 2025 Tree of Love events:
Borges Tree of Love kickoff
Wednesday, October 1, 2025
5:30 pm
Borgess Cancer Center
2520 Robert Jones Way
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Borgess-Lee Tree of Love
Tree-lighting ceremony
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
5:30 pm
Borgess-Lee Hospital
420 West High Street
Dowagiac, MI 49047
Borgess Tree of Love
Tree-lighting ceremony
Thursday, December 4, 2025
5:30 pm
Borgess Hospital: Lawrence Education Center
1521 Gull Road
Kalamazoo, MI 49048