Hospice Tree of Lights launched

THE Highway Hospice unveiled their annual Tree of Lights on Friday, December 2 at Jameson Park in Morningside. The tree, which will be lit throughout December, pays tribute to those lost to terminal illness, or simply ‘lost too soon’, offering members of the community a way to remember their loved ones this festive period.

Community members gathered at the park where families laid out picnic blankets, and the Tree of Lights was officially lit up at approximately 19:30.

“Globes are available for purchase on our website, or you can stop in at Highway Hospice and buy a globe there. Everyone who buys a globe writes a dedication for the book of remembrance – it’s for loved ones lost too soon. Each globe is in memory of them, and we add their name to the book which stays in the park throughout December. We also have the dedications posted online. The tree will be lit throughout December. We often find that people will come down and have a picnic in the park,” said John’o Olds, Head of Public Relations for Highway Hospice.

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He explained that the community members purchase a metaphorical globe, selecting one of the existing globes on the tree.

“There are approximately 9 000 globes on the tree, so you kind of pick one that is important to you,” said Olds.

Olds added that funds raised will support the work of Highway Hospice.

“Funds will be used to provide comfort and care to the terminally ill. This event also serves to remind people how important life is,” said Olds.

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Highway Hospice was founded in 1982, and they have provided palliative care to the community of eThekwini for over 40 years.

The public can purchase a ‘globe’ at R60.

For more information, contact Highway Hospice on 031 208 6110 or visit www.highwayhospice.co.za.