Festival of Trees Goes on Hiatus for 2009 Due to Potential Swine Flu (H1N1) Pandemic

September 15, 2009

Palmetto Health Foundation’s Festival of Trees Goes On Hiatus for 2009 Due to Potential Swine Flu (H1N1) Pandemic

Due to the potential pandemic of swine flu (H1N1) and the fact that several cases are currently being treated at Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital, Palmetto Health administrators and medical staff have determined that Festival of Trees should not be held at Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital this year. The fundraising event, which was originally scheduled for November 21-22, will go on hiatus for 2009.

“Although it is unknown at this time the progression of swine flu, we must prepare for the worst case scenario and put Palmetto Health patients and the community first,” commented Stan Hickson, FACHE, vice president of Operations at Palmetto Health Richland.

“Because this strain is so new, little is known about H1N1 influenza and how it affects children,” says Anna-Kathryn Rye, M.D., assistant professor of Clinical Pediatrics at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases. “One of the most important recommendations this season is that people who have flu symptoms should not go to work, daycare, school or other public places. This spreads the flu and puts everyone at risk.”

“For many years, Festival of Trees has been embraced by our community,” commented Samuel J. Tenenbaum, president of Palmetto Health Foundation. “This year, we have taken into consideration the health and well-being of Festival of Trees attendees and supporters. We are acting prudently. We look forward to resuming Festival of Trees next year at Children’s Hospital.”