Jo Browne

People from across Lichfield and Burntwood are being given the chance to come together and remember their loved ones at special services arranged by St Giles Hospice.

The Light Up a Life services are taking place across the region, including an outdoor service in Whittington on 6th December and at Lichfield Cathedral on 9th December.

The Light Up a Life services are open to anyone, not just those people who have been supported by the charity.

Jo Browne
Jo Browne
Jo Browne will be among those paying tribute to lost loved ones as she remembers her mum Patricia who was cared for at the Whittington hospice in 2010.

“Light up a Life has become increasingly important to us as a family over the years,” she said. “It’s now part of our family tradition at Christmas.

“My dad, my sister and I go with our children so that we can be together and individually reflect. It’s also an opportunity for my children to connect with their Nanny Pat who they didn’t get to meet.

“St Giles Hospice was absolutely amazing in mum’s final weeks. The nurses supported us and attended to mum, no matter how many times we asked for their reassurance.

“The after-support we’ve had as a family has been brilliant and we go back to the hospice every year to visit the magnolia tree outside the room where mum was.”

People can dedicate a light on one of the charity’s Christmas trees online or by calling 01543 432538.

St Giles Hospice’s director of fundraising, Elinor Eustace, said: “Christmas is a time when many people look back on the past, remember family and friends who have died and reflect upon the life and experiences they shared.

“Our Light Up a Life services give people the opportunity to come together to remember happy times and celebrate the life of their loved one in the run up to Christmas.

“The services also give people the chance to support the work of the hospice through dedicating a light on one of our Christmas Trees, which will be switched on at the service, and by leaving a message in our Book of Memories.”

The name of loved ones and personal messages will be included in the Book of Memories, which is available to view at all of the Light up a Life services.

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