FAMILIES who have lost loved ones are being invited to the Marie Curie hospice for to the Lights to Remember Service this weekend.
The event, on December 7, is for those who have been affected by terminal illness or bereavement the chance to come together at the hospice, joined by staff and supporters.
From 4pm there will include readings, music, and the time and space to reflect on the cherished memories of loved ones who have died at the Marsh Lane hospice.
Jane Murray, bereavement services manager at Marie Curie Hospice, Solihull, has shared advice on coping with loss at Christmas time.
She says: “The festive period can be a difficult time of year for people who’ve been bereaved, no matter how long ago their loss happened. It’s important to remember that grief is a normal emotion and there is no right or wrong way to grieve, no set pattern and no set time frame.
“It’s not unusual to find this time of year emotionally exhausting as you might feel an expectation to be happy and joyful, stick to traditions and not spoil things for others. However, taking care of yourself is key – it’s okay to do things differently and to ask for help.
“Some people may want to hold time in the day to remember their loved one by lighting a candle, looking at photos, or sharing memories. Others may not want to celebrate at all. Planning ahead together with friends and family to discuss what feels manageable can help to relieve feelings of pressure.
“For anyone struggling with bereavement during this time, Marie Curie’s free Support Line (0800 090 2309) is open over the festive period.”
Vicki Clark, a healthcare assistant at the Marie Curie Solihull hospice, also shared her personal experience of managing grief at this time of year.
She said: “I lost my mum four years ago and for me this time of year can be especially tough, as she passed away a few weeks before Christmas.
“It can be hard celebrating Christmas as dad is less interested in the festivities than he used to be, but we like to reminisce about our good times as a family before we lost mum. My wife and colleagues help me maintain my positivity during this period.
“At the hospice, a lot of our patients and families are aware it may be their last Christmas together – we offer a listening ear and a good chat when wanted, as well as private time to spend with each other in their own spaces.
“If people want to celebrate Christmas or any other occasion, we will make it happen, regardless of the time of year – we’ve bedecked the halls with tinsel in June before now.”
Attendance should be confirmed by emailing [email protected].
Anyone who wants to share a photograph of a loved one for the remembrance wall ahead of the event, an do so by emailing the address above by Friday, December 5.
