WHERE there’s light, there’s hope, is how Westville resident, Daphne Romeril describes the Highway Hospice’s annual fundraiser, the Tree of Light.
Daphne was diagnosed with stage four bone cancer in 2014. She underwent radiation, chemotherapy and surgeries on many occasions, and is determined to fight her cancer. She spent the last four months at Parklands Hospital and was recently moved to the Highway Hospice in Sherwood for pain control treatment.
Daphne said although she’s only spent a short time at hospice, she has come to know the caring nurses and staff as her little family.
“The Tree of Light ceremony is a wonderful idea and inspiring for all those who have lost a loved one. It gives them an opportunity to remember them,” said Daphne.
She is encouraging the community to support the Highway Hospice.
“People don’t realise what cancer is all about until it happens to you. I wish everyone could support Highway Hospice and the work they do in providing treatment for patients with cancer, support and quality of life,” said Daphne.
The Tree of Light ceremony is at Jameson Park (opposite Mitchell Park) on Friday, 2 December. The fundraising event starts at 6pm with Christmas themed music supplied by dedicated volunteer musicians. There’s food stalls, but you can also take your own picnic basket along, as well as a blanket and an umbrella in case it rains – there will be a few tents erected as a standby.
The actual lighting of the tree takes place at 7.45pm (weather permitting) when more than 9000 globes light up with a soft radiance. The tree will shine throughout December in memory of those who have passed on.
If you would like to remember a loved one at this special event, please let Highway Hospice have your donation of R50 per globe. Visit www.mylight.co.za for a form and indicate who you are remembering so that your dedication can be placed in the Book of Remembrance that evening. Alternatively you can contact Heather on 031 208 6110 or e-mail: heather@hospice.co.za to buy a globe.
Corporates are invited to sponsor a star on the top of the tree for R10 000 as a shining symbol of love, care and concern for the community. The company name will have a special page at the front of the Book of Remembrance, will receive mention on all social media and on the night. The company will also receive a Section 18a tax certificate.
