In the heart of Maine, a local family has transformed their holiday tradition into a tribute to medical professionals who care for premature and critically ill infants. For over a decade, the Hathaway family has been dazzling visitors with an expansive Christmas lights display, raising funds for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor. This year's display features new interactive elements, adding excitement and engagement for visitors. Despite the significant effort required to set up and maintain the display, the Hathaways find immense satisfaction in giving back to a cause close to their hearts.

Shining a Light on Hope and Gratitude in Veazie, Maine

In the charming town of Veazie, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Maine, the Hathaway family has created a spectacle that brings joy and warmth to the community during the festive season. Each year, they illuminate the front of Veazie Community School with an impressive array of 110,000 lights, synchronized across 560 channels of animation. The display has evolved significantly since its inception over a decade ago, starting with just a few thousand lights. This year, visitors can interact with a new "Veazie" sign, which lights up and performs a special sequence when activated by a button press.

The inspiration behind this annual event stems from the Hathaways' personal experience. Their son Alex tragically passed away shortly after birth, while his twin brother Warren spent 51 days in the NICU at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center. This profound journey led the family to seek ways to give back and honor the dedicated healthcare workers who provided crucial support during one of their most challenging times. All donations collected from the light show are donated directly to the NICU, ensuring that the funds go toward enhancing the care and services for newborns and their families.

Dr. Jay Hagerty, a neonatologist at the NICU, has witnessed firsthand the impact of such community efforts. With over two decades of experience, he has helped countless families navigate the uncertainties of critical care for newborns. He expressed deep gratitude for the Hathaways' unwavering commitment, emphasizing how vital community support is for advancing the hospital's mission. “Their dedication not only brightens the holidays but also strengthens our ability to provide top-tier care to the northern part of the state,” Dr. Hagerty noted.

The Hathaway Holiday Lights will be on display at Veazie Community School from now through Christmas, running from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. each evening. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the dazzling spectacle and contribute to a meaningful cause.

This heartwarming initiative serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community spirit and compassion. It highlights how personal experiences can inspire acts of kindness that ripple through society, bringing hope and support to those in need. The Hathaways' dedication to honoring the NICU staff and supporting families facing similar challenges exemplifies the true spirit of the holiday season.