96% of people in the UK have experienced bereavement,1 that’s why we're invites everyone to take part in our Light up a Life this winter, offering a chance to celebrate and remember the lives of loved ones. Open to the entire Somerset community, Light up a Life allows people to remember those they've lost while helping raise crucial funds to support free hospice care across Somerset. This year, we aim to raise £50,000, ensuring we can continue to provide compassionate care for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their loved ones.
“You can celebrate and remember the lives of your loved ones this Christmas by dedicating a star in their memory,” says George Cockburn, Supporter Care Manager at the hospice. By making a donation, participants will not only commemorate the memories of those they’ve lost but also help the hospice provide vital care for people facing life-limiting illnesses, at home, in the community and in the hospice’s In-Patient Unit.
George continued, “the care and support St Margaret’s provides wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our community. Light up a Life is a wonderful opportunity for everyone, not just those whose loved ones were cared for by us, to celebrate the people we miss most. Every donation makes a big difference in helping us continue to provide hospice care across Somerset.”.
We support families at some of the most difficult times in their lives. The Light up a Life appeal is filled with stories of families who’ve experienced the compassionate care we provide first-hand. One such story is Ian’s—a man whose final months were bettered by the hospice's support. Ian received care from our community nurses then, when his condition worsened, he moved to the In-Patient Unit, where he found not only medical care but peace and dignity in his final days. The hospice staff ensured Ian remained pain-free, allowing his family to focus on making the most of their time together.
Yvonne, Ian’s wife, recalls the moments they were able to share, even as the end approached, “St Margaret’s took away the fear and the pain. We had time—time to sit, to talk, to hold hands. There was no rush, just moments we’ll treasure forever. I can’t tell you how much that meant to us.”
For Yvonne, Christmas holds particularly poignant memories. She remembers the laughter and joy that Ian brought to every holiday season, “Christmas for us was all about family—it was a huge celebration with far too many presents and so much laughter”.
This year will be different, but Ian’s memory will still be at the heart of their Christmas. “We even have several baubles with Ian’s face on them,” Yvonne said, “Some aren’t very flattering, but it’s comforting to know he’ll still be there with us, watching over as we do what we’ve always done—rip open presents and laugh, with Ian’s face all over the tree.”
For Yvonne, keeping Ian’s memory alive is essential, and Christmas is the perfect time to do it. “Ian adored Christmas, so to honour him at this time of year feels right. It’s a time for family, and he will always be part of ours.”
We help families create cherished moments, ensuring that patients live as well as possible for as long as possible. Light up a Life offers a way to remember those who are no longer with us, while supporting the care of others who are still on their journey.
Whether or not your loved one was cared for by St Margaret’s, you can take part in this special appeal. Please join us this Christmas by making a donation and dedicating a star in memory of someone special by clicking the image below. Together, we can light up lives and support those in need.
