The holiday season is filled with many festivities and family traditions that bring joy. For some, it can also be a reminder of the absence of someone they love. There is an empty chair at the table or a special task that someone else now must complete. These holes can make it difficult to fully engage in the gatherings that once brought joy.
South Coast Hospice provides free grief support for the community and recognizes the need for an annual event to help community members create a new tradition that includes their loved ones. “Light Up a Life” is a free event that gives us the opportunity to honor, remember, and celebrate those we love and miss.
The event will be held at Pony Village Mall on December 10 th , from 2 pm to 4 pm. There will be an 18’ tree in front of Aspen Lace, thanks to our main sponsor, Grocery Outlet. The tree will be adorned with doves containing the names of loved ones being honored. Attendees can have the names of their loved ones added to the tree, or take the dove home. Beautiful music will be performed by Candace Kreitlow and Laura Amling-McDonald and refreshments will be available. At 3 pm the tree will be lit up and remain lighted through December 27 th . There will also be information on grief and the holidays and South Coast Hospices’ grief support group throughout the season.
Kevin Garvey, executive director for South Coast Hospice, wants to remind people that “during the holidays many people reflect on the moments that they’ve shared with their loved ones over the years. The memories can be a cause of sadness and loss, or a reason for joyful celebration, sometimes a combination of both. South Coast Hospice is available to assist you as you walk through the myriad of emotions that may arise.”
For more information about the support group please call 541-269-2986. To request doves for loved ones to be placed on the tree through December 24th, please contact Doreen at d.kelly@schospice.org or 541-297-3241. Frontier Foot & Ankle Specialists sponsored the doves for the event. We also recognize pets are family for many community members and welcome their addition to the tree. While donations are appreciated, they are not required.