Hundreds of people across the city, county and nationwide are tuning in to Treetops Hospice’s online memorial service to see their dedication lights shine on the hospice Christmas tree.
The moving Light Up A Life Service includes personal stories of those helped by the local end-of-life charity, as well as time for viewers to take a quiet moment to remember their loved ones.
Almost 500 people have already remembered their loved ones raising over £16,000 for Treetops, and more dedications are continuing to be made. The dedications shine as lights on the hospice Christmas tree switched on during the service.
Treetops Chief Executive, Julie Heath, said: “It’s wonderful that so many people are making personal dedications, giving donations to the hospice, and also watching our Light Up A Life Service.
“Dedication lights will continue to shine in memory of loved ones throughout Christmas, a time when we remember those we hold dear.
“We anticipated that this year would be poignant as we have faced a difficult last twelve months and we hope the service will bring people comfort during these challenging times.”
The service was filmed and editing free of charge by Derby-based Bloc Digital and DL Media.
Amongst those featured in the short service is Aimee Rosso whose late mum, Stevie, received end of life care from Treetops Hospice at Home nurses.
“Mum had always wanted to stay at home, but it was quite a daunting thought and as we got towards the end of her life, it did start to take its toll.
“We wouldn’t have been able to get through it without the nurses being there. They were like our angels. They just took all the difficult stuff away, which as a family we desperately needed.
“The nurses became like one of the family. They could step in for a few hours to give us a break and to know that we didn’t have to worry about anything during that time, was just amazing. It gave us the strength to carry on.
“The whole experience of mum passing was just made more bearable and because we had the support, it couldn’t have happened in a better way.”
The Treetops Light up a Life trees are shining bright with dedications. Visit: www.treetops.org.uk/lights to watch our online service or to join over 500 people who have remembered their loved ones with us this year visit.
