OPINION: Tree of Light is a celebration of meaning, memory and giving
South Coast Hospice has thanked the community for its generosity.
For more than 40 years, South Coast Hospice has marked the Christmas season with its much loved Tree of Light ceremony.
At this time of year, when the festive period can feel especially difficult for those who are bereaved, the Tree of Light offers a space for remembrance, reflection and connection.
By making a pledge in memory of a loved one, families and friends find comfort and meaning, particularly as the ceremony is held in a public setting that honours those who have died.
Traditionally, hospice has used stars to represent each pledge, with the name of a loved one recorded on them.
This year, however, hospice chose to reimagine the Tree of Light as an even deeper celebration of meaning.
Instead of stars, pledges took the form of soft toys, each one dedicated in memory of a loved one and later given as a gift to a child in need over the Christmas period.
There is something special about a soft toy that resonates not only with children, but with adults as well.
It was moving to see participants carefully choosing a toy that they felt represented their loved one.
Knowing that these toys would go on to bring comfort and joy to a child made the experience profoundly meaningful for those making pledges, as their loved one’s memory would continue to create happiness beyond the ceremony itself.
This year’s Tree of Light took place on the South Coast Hospice premises and was attended by many members of the community.
The tree, filled with over 700 soft toys awaiting distribution to deserving children, brought great joy to those who came to view it.
Candles were lit in memory of those who have passed during the year, and the Margate Pipe Band led a moving procession, playing Amazing Grace.
The event carried particular significance this year as it was held alongside the In Patient Unit, which has sadly had to close due to a lack of funding.
While home care visits continue as they always have, there remain patients whose needs would greatly benefit from the intensive care and support once provided by the unit.
To date, a number of organisations have received toys collected through the Tree of Light pledges.
The taking of pledges also serves as a vital fundraising exercise for hospice, helping to support its ongoing services and care for those in need.
Hospice remains deeply grateful to the community for its continued support, generosity and compassion.
DIANE VAN DYK
CEO
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