Joy to switch on Hospice’s tree of hope
Last chance to pay tribute to someone you have loved and lost, at the Highway Hospice's Tree of Light ceremony.
HIGHWAY Hospice has chosen one of its day centre patients, Joy Danrè, to switch on the lights on the Tree of Light at Jamieson Park (next to Mitchell Park) in Durban on Friday, 2 December.
Joy was diagnosed with stage 4 aggressive cancer in the kidney, ribs, lungs and bones two years ago. She was given three to nine months to live, but she was determined to beat it. She had her kidney removed and underwent chemotherapy and radiation. She has finally gone into remission and said she’s feeling well.
“Like all cancer patients, it was devastating to find out at first. I was in denial for a while but soon realised it was something that I had to accept and focus my mind to overcome,” said Joy.
She said she felt honoured to be chosen as the person to switch on the lights of Highway Hospice’s Tree of Light.
“When you light a candle, I believe it is a symbol of hope and a blessing to all those around me, in a similar way when I switch on the lights on the Tree of Light, I hope it spreads love and blessings to all those who have cancer or are fighting similar illnesses,” said Joy.
Her advice to other patients is to not go into denial, but instead accept the battle and fight it. “Support is also important and is what helps make you stronger each day,” said Joy.
The Morningside resident said she hoped more people will support this beautiful and touching ceremony for patients and their families who have been dealing with advanced, incurable diseases, including HIV, within the greater Durban area, to reflect on the year or years that have gone by. The Tree of Light also brings people together and teaches them about love and loss.
The Tree of Light ceremony starts at 6pm with Christmas themed music supplied by dedicated volunteer musicians. There’s food stalls but you’re welcome to take your own picnic basket along, as well as a blanket and don’t forget 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 for this special event, please let Highway Hospice have your donation of R50 per globe. Forms are available at www.mylight.co.za and please indicate who you are remembering so that your dedication can be placed in the Book of Remembrance that evening. You can also use the form below.
