AN annual campaign to raise money to treat terminally-ill patients, and give people the chance to remember loved ones who have died, has been launched by Pendleside Hospice.
The Light Up A Life campaign is held in the run-up to Christmas each year, and sees people dedicating a coloured light to the memory of family and friends who have died.
Thousands of lights are then displayed around the outside of the hospice building, and are first lit at special services before Christmas.
As in previous years, there will also be a Christmas tree adorned with lights, and supplied by Alderson and Horan Funeral Services, the main sponsors of Light up a Life.
The services, taking place on Saturday, December 17th, and Sunday, December 18th, at 3-30 p.m. will include carols and readings and a performance from teenage songstress Grace O’Malley.
After the lights are switched on, there will be a quiet moment of reflection, before a piper ends the service.
After Christmas, the names of everyone remembered will be entered into a leather-bound book of remembrance, supplied by Co-operative Funeralcare, which will be kept on display at the hospice throughout the year. Hospice fund-raising manager Mrs Kaye Bartle said: “For many people, the festive season doesn’t hold any thoughts of peace and happiness, because the special people in their lives are no longer around.
“Light Up A Life gives an opportunity to say that, although they are gone from our lives, they are not forgotten. It is nice as the festive season approaches to gather together to collectively remember loved ones in this positive way.”
For the first time, people can remember a loved one online by visiting the hospice website {http://www.pendleside.org.uk|www.pendleside.org.uk}. Leaflets are available from hospice shops and hospice reception, or you can telephone with a credit or debit card by calling the fund-raising office on 01282 440120.
A minimum donation of £5 is requested for each person remembered, and in return, donors receive a Light Up A Life card and lapel badge, or Christmas tree decoration.