This year’s Memory Tree launch, sponsored by the Southern RHA Palliative Care Volunteer Program, will be held at Clearspring Centre in Steinbach on Monday, December 3, 2012, at 2:00 p.m.
Memory Tree Launch is a public service offered by the Southern Regional Health Authority to the residents of the region who have experienced the loss of a loved one in any way regardless of age, place or reason.
Reflective readings will be presented by the Palliative Care team members. Musical selections will be offered from the Steinbach Regional Secondary School Chorale and guitarist Willie Wiebe.
“The Holidays can be a difficult time for people experiencing grief and bereavement at the loss of a loved one, especially if it’s the first holiday season without that family member or friend. Finding special ways to remember our loved ones can be very helpful for family and friends. The Memory Tree is one way of honoring our need to remember those we miss at this significant time of year”, said Kathy McPhail, Chief Executive Officer of the Southern Regional Health Authority.
“The service is open to anyone in the region of all faiths and beliefs who have experienced the loss of a significant person and who would like to take time during the holiday season to reflect and honour that individual”, Said Palliative Care Specialist Anne Plett.
In addition to the Memory Tree Launch, the public is invited to decorate the tree with a personalized message honoring the memory of a loved one from December 3-23. Cards will be provided by trained volunteers of the SRHA Palliative Care team who will be on site from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Over the holidays feelings of grief can sometimes become overwhelming. The SRHA offers a free 24 hour 7 days per week Crisis Response Service support line that people can confidentially call at 204-326-9276 or (toll free) 1-888-617-7715. Someone is always available to talk.”
Voluntary donations will be used in support of the (SHRA) Palliative Care Comfort Basket project. Helpful handouts on managing grief and bereavement during the holidays are available at the Memory Tree throughout December.
