December is a very special time of year at the Hospice, as we join together with our community, to reflect and remember those we miss at our Lights of Love celebrations across Hastings and Rother. As we plan our celebrations for this year, Cheryl and her family tell us why Lights of Love means so much to them.
“I have been attending Lights of Love since 2017, the year we lost our beautiful mum. She was looked after by the Hospice, first in the community and then at the end of her life.
“We immediately felt supported by the Hospice team. They were professional, caring, knowledgeable and most of all, they were there for all of us. I will never forget them bringing my dad, daughter, sister and I blankets, tea and biscuits, as we sat by Mum’s bed so she wouldn’t be alone. The personal touch was so welcome.
“We first found out about Lights of Love after Mum’s death. Christmas was one of her favourite times of year. Lights of Love is another way of keeping her memory alive. It felt comforting, and knowing people were there for the same reason you were, felt like a community coming together.
“We went to the non-religious celebration and it was beautiful. Seeing all the tealights laid out together on the table was almost like wherever our loved ones were, they were all together.
“Dad loved having his photo taken by the tree where Mum’s star was placed. However, the part that really hit me, in a good way, was chatting to people who we may never have met if it wasn’t for the Hospice. Hearing their stories, some funny, some sad and some that made you feel at ease.
“Lights of Love has become a family tradition, now sadly remembering my dad too, who passed away in 2023. I would honestly say to anyone who feels apprehensive about going to Lights of Love, your feelings are valid but, you will be welcomed wholeheartedly. If you don’t have a friendly face to bring with you for moral support, there’s a chair next to us with your name on it.” said Cheryl.
