Tree of Light adds a few more years of good cheer

HIGHWAY Hospice’s day centre patients are urging you to support the Tree of Light, an annual fundraising event in which you can pay tribute to a loved who has died. The Tree of Light helps fund transport and nourishment for the

continuation of the day centre, which is also helped by volunteers.

According to day centre patient Ingrid Isaacs, Hospice, an non-profit organisation which cares for people with advanced, incurable diseases, including HIV, within the greater Durban area, is a worthy cause to support.

“Hospice really needs to raise funds for the wonderful work they do. I personally have come a long way over the past three years here. Donating to Hospice is so important,” said Isaacs.

Ernest Krees, another patient, shared the same sentiments adding that he looked forward to the weekly day centre meetings to share stories with other patients as he has grown to call his other ‘big family’.

Ernest and his friends at the day centre meet once a week for occupational therapy, medical care and a lovely breakfast and lunch.

Lionel, another patient said Hospice is not only for end stage cancer patients. There are patients who are in remission and are homebound and maybe alone.

“Hospice’s day centre is a meeting place for a morning of care, fun and laughter. said Lionel.

He added that Hospice has become a place of joy to meet similar folk and share the same stories.

“Sometimes I feel more alive here than I do at home,” he said.

When the lights burn bright on the Tree of Light, its sends out a message to all those out there who bring joy to someone near and dear and adds a few more years of good cheer. So when Hospice asks you to dig deep, remember who you are doing it for.

DROP BOX-

If you have a loved one who you would like to remember in this beautiful and touching tribute, contact Heather Walker at Highway Hospice on 031 208 6110 or e-mail: heather@highwayhospice.co.za. Dedications cost R40 a globe. The ‘switch on’ ceremony takes place at Jameson Park on Friday 6 December from 6pm. The switch on will be at approximately 7.45pm, weather permitting.