Tree of Light – a beacon of hope

HIGHWAY Hospice staff believe the Tree of Light is a beacon of hope for many families who have lost a loved one.

It’s a special occasion for patients and their families who have been dealing with advanced, incurable diseases, including HIV, within the greater Durban area to reflect on the years that have gone by. It also brings people together and teaches them about love and loss.

Tree of Light is one of the most important appeals of the year. It is a beautiful and touching ceremony and a time to remember loved ones who are no longer with us.

This year’s event will take place in Jameson Park (opposite Mitchell Park) on Friday 4 December at 6pm with music with a Christmas theme by dedicated volunteer musicians.

There will be food stalls, but people are welcome to take along picnic baskets and blankets. People are also encouraged to take umbrellas in case it rains.

A few tents will be erected for shelter just in case. The hospice also asks people to buy candles and light them on the night.

The actual lighting of the tree will take place at 7.45pm (weather-permitting) when more than 9 000 globes light up with soft radiance. The tree will shine throughout December.

Donors and the public are invited to buy a globe for R50 each, honouring the memory of a loved one, as December is a special time of the year when people remember their loved ones at Christmas.

Contact Heather or John on 031 208 6110 or e-mail heather@hospice.co.za to buy globes.