Lights of Love

Light Up a Life had long been a fixture in the Willow Wood calendar; so many supporters welcomed the opportunity to leave a message of love and remembrance for those no longer with us. However, the last couple of years have clearly shown just how much we need to maintain and to nurture links with family and friends and how important that interaction is for our wellbeing.

The Hospice therefore has extended the Christmas themed event, and our newly christened Lights of Love is still here to remember lost loved ones, but also to reach out to close friends and family who may be living overseas, working away from home or who, for whatever reason, are no longer in regular contact.

Willow Wood’s chaplain, Eddy Inglis said: “I think we’ve all seen the effects enforced separation has had, we all need interaction with loved ones to flourish and to thrive. Special occasions such as Christmas and the New Year are times when we want to reach out to each other and if we can’t physically embrace our nearest and dearest, then we can help reach out with a message of love.

“By dedicating a light on our Tree of Lights, by leaving a message in our online Lights of Love Book, you are reaching out to those special people, sharing your love and knowing that they will be able to read those messages whenever they need to feel that connection, that special, loving bond. It is a simple but meaningful way to share love, friendship – even to give each other a virtual hug.

“And you’re not just leaving messages or sharing memories, by taking part in Lights of Love you are helping to ensure that future memories can be made for our patients and their loved ones. Your donations are ensuring that our specialised services can continue into the future, your loving messages are improving the lives of our patients and for that, we thank you.”

Two celebratory carol services will be held, one at Glossop Parish Church on Tuesday 7 December and the second at the Albion Church in Ashton on Sunday 12 December. These are free to attend and featuring choirs, brass bands are a joyful way to mark the start of the festive season.

To leave a message in the online Book please go to willowwood.org.uk/lightsoflove where you will find full information.