Hospice to hold service for lost loved ones

 There are now less than two weeks until an annual hospice event which remembers the lives of loved ones lost over the last year. Michael Sobell Hospice, based at Mount Vernon Hospital, holds its Light up a Life remembrance ceremonies each year for local bereaved families and friends to come together to celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed away but are not forgotten. The service will be a non-religious collection of readings and festive songs led by members of the hospice team and community, with music from local choirs Lemon Tuesday and Harrow Harmony. This year there will be two ceremonies at 1.30pm and 4pm on Sunday, December 15, at the Michael Sobell Centre in Northwood. At the end of each ceremony the Hospice Light up a Life Tree will be lit with each light representing the life of someone who is being remembered. Guests will also be offered refreshments. This year the Light up a Life tree will be switched on by David Newton, whose mother was cared for by the hospice before she lost her battle with cancer in October 2011. David and his family have been supporting the hospice ever since by tirelessly fundraising for them at every opportunity. He said: “We will be forever grateful to Michael Sobell House for giving my mum the best end-of-life care she could have received. Although mum couldn’t be at home for her last few days, her family were able to spend some last precious moments with her due to the wonderful care and support of the hospice staff.” This year the hospice is also encouraging bereaved families celebrate their lost loved ones by dedicating a star on their Light up a Life website. The website also enables people to upload a photograph and offers friends and family members the chance to add stars of their own to create a whole constellation for each person being remembered.  Those who do this are asked to make a small donation. Entry to the Light up a Life services is free but those wishing to attend must book a place in advance by calling 01923 844730 or by visiting the Light up a Life dedicated website http://www.light-up-a-life.org.uk/