On a sunny Saturday morning in September, Wyre Forest charity KEMP Hospice held their 2nd annual Butterfly Release at the beautiful Bodenham Arboretum. In what was a poignant and moving occasion, people were invited to release a butterfly into the grounds of the arboretum in memory of their loved ones. With supporters from across the region and beyond attending, the event raised over £7,500 for the hospice charity.
Jayne Sargeant, Head of Fundraising and Communications at KEMP Hospice said, “This is the second year we’ve held the Butterfly Release, and once again we all found it incredibly moving to witness the love and emotion surrounding each butterfly which had been dedicated in memory of a loved one.”
The event took place on Saturday 9th September and thanks to the amazing generosity of all those involved, has helped to raise over £7,500 for KEMP Hospice charity. Jayne continued “We have been overwhelmed by the kindness of everyone who has donated and made a dedication for their butterfly. As a hospice charity, we never charge for our care, so the amount raised will help those experiencing life-limiting illness and bereavement across the Wyre Forest who are in need our services and support.”
Members of the Rock Choir were on hand to provide a musical interlude for the occasion this year, singing gentle songs for people to listen to whilst recalling memories, or simply quietly thinking about their loved ones. Jayne said “We were absolutely thrilled the Rock Choir could join us this year. We had many people comment how beautiful they sounded and how much it added to the occasion. We are very aware of the emotion and poignancy surrounding the event, and we feel honoured to be able to give people an opportunity to gather together and share the moment with loved ones and others who may be grieving at this time.”
The event was once again kindly sponsored by The Wharf Care Home, Stourport and supported by Bodenham Arboretum. Local visual marketing company DT Studios also supported the event by filming the occasion which KEMP will share via their website later. Local photographer Colin Hill was also kindly on hand to capture the event, with a selection of images found on the KEMP Hospice Facebook page facebook.com/kemphospice
KEMP Hospice offer Bereavement Services to those living in the Wyre Forest, whether they have an existing connection to KEMP or not. If you’re in need of support, you can contact KEMP Hospice via their website or by calling 01562 756000.
