Light up a Life on December 14 with Southern Area Hospice

The ceremony will feature readings and reflections with music by St. Paul’s High School Bessbrook. Light refreshments will be served.

The Light Up a Life ceremony is an opportunity for anyone in the local community, whether they have a connection with the Hospice or not, to remember and celebrate the lives of their loved ones who have passed away, in the lead up to Christmas. Those who are unable to attend can dedicate a light on the Hospice’s virtual Christmas tree and share a special message to remember their loved one.

Conor Rooney from Mayobridge is supporting the Light Up a Life campaign this year as the Southern Area Hospice cared for his wife, Claire.

In 2018, Claire received a diagnosis of breast cancer. After an incredible fight, she was in remission and even returned to work. However, a year later, the cancer had returned and regrettably this time the treatment did not work.

When Claire was admitted into the Hospice, Conor shares, “We were immediately surrounded with care, and it allowed us to focus on the most important thing, which was spending the precious time we had left together and to ensure it was as meaningful as possible for our family.

"The girls still talk about spending time with their mummy in the Hospice Garden and the day the ice cream van came.”

Claire passed away in September 2022 in the Hospice; she was just 46 years old.

Conor continues, “The Hospice did not just care for Claire, they cared for me and my family and made such a difference during a very traumatic time.

“I thank the Hospice for offering this service and for everything they did for our family. Hospice will always hold a very special place in our hearts.”

Liz Cuddy, CEO of Southern Area Hospice said “Christmas can be a very difficult time of year for those who are bereaved. Our annual Light Up a Life event gives people the opportunity to get together to remember and honour their loved ones.

"We hope the ceremony will provide comfort, support, and a sense of community for those who are grieving. I would like to extend our sincere thanks to Gordon’s Chemists and Killowen Contracts Ltd for their very generous sponsorship for this year’s Light Up a Life campaign.”

Supporters can dedicate a light on the virtual Christmas tree to support Southern Area Hospice. To view the tree and leave your special message, visit www.southernareahospiceservices.org/light-up-a-life or phone 028 3026 7711.

The Light Up a Life ceremony will take place on Thursday, December 14 at 7.30pm, in the grounds of the Southern Area Hospice, Courtenay Hill, Newry BT34 2EB. Please wrap up warm as this is an outside event.