The holiday season can be a tough time to celebrate in the event of losing a loved one.
But, the Ridge Meadows Hospice Society is hoping to help residents with their grief and loss by bringing the community together.
From now until Monday, Dec. 23, people grieving can celebrate a life by hanging an Christmas ornament in memory of their loved one on a tree at the Ridge Meadows Hospice Society Trift Store.
A tree of memories will also be set up at ValleyFair Mall from Friday, Nov. 22 until Sunday, Dec. 1.
Keepsake memorial hummingbird decorations will also be available by donation with all proceeds going directly towards the free services offered to those in the community experiencing grief and bereavement.
Then on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m. the society will be holding their annual memorial and candle lighting service called 'A Time to Remember'.
Lindsey Willis, executive director of the hospice society, said the event has been taking place for more than 15 years.
"The holiday season can be especially difficult with all the celebrations and family gatherings. This event offers a time and place to honour our grief and loss as a community. Grief can be very isolating and there is a strong sense of connection and support when sharing our losses and finding healing together," noted Willis.
'A Time to Remember' recognizes and honours grief and loss during the holiday season, she said.
All are welcome to this special evening, with performances by the Maple Ridge Choral Society and readings by staff and volunteers with the society about feelings of grief and expressions of hope.
Last year 75 people attended.
The evening includes a candle lighting and a photo tribute to our loved ones.
Willis noted the evening is open to everyone, no matter if they are grieving a loss from years ago, or a current loss.
"Grief has no timeline," she added.
Anyone who would like a photo included in the slide show can email it to info@gardenhill.ca.
The event is being put on in partnership with Garden Hill Cremation & Funeral Services and St George Maple Ridge, where the event will be hosted, at
23500 Dewdney Trunk Road, Maple Ridge.
For more information call 604-463-7722.
