Tree to glow with light of loved ones

SAMANTHA Brooksbank and Gynah Smith, sisters supporting Dr Kershaw's Hospice's annual Light Up a Life appeal in memory of their mum Barbara, centre, who died last year

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HUNDREDS of lights will illuminate Dr Kershaw's Hospice for the annual Light Up a Life event next month.

The event gives residents the chance to commemorate a special person and celebrate how much they meant to them by dedicating a light to them on Royton Hospice's Christmas Tree.

Christmas is an extra special time for sisters Gynah Smith and Samantha Brooksbank and their family, who are supporting this year's appeal.

Their mum, Barbara Findell was a patient at the hospice last November when it became clear that she would not be able to celebrate one last Christmas with her family.

The sisters asked one of the nurses if they could put up a few Christmas decorations and, not knowing how much time Barbara had left, the nurses roped in income generation manager, Lisa Pearson to search for a spare Christmas tree.

A tree and decorations were sourced and Barbara, Gynah, Samantha and the rest of the family got to have that one last Christmas together - an experience both sisters say they will never forget and will always be grateful for.

To thank the hospice for providing them with special memories of one final Christmas, and to keep the memory of Barbara alive, the family will be supporting the appeal this year.

Like dozens of other families, they have dedicated a light at the hospice grounds ready for the Light Up a Life service on December 4 at 7pm.

The lights will also remain lit between 3 and 11pm until January 6.

Income generation manager Lisa Pearson said: "Christmas is a very special time but it is difficult when you think of those who cannot be with you.

"This campaign is all about coming together for support and remembering our loved ones."

To take part in this year's appeal, please contact the fundraising team on 0161 624 9984 for a form or alternatively email the team at info@drkershawshospice.org.uk.

Dedications received before tomorrow will be featured in a service booklet on the day.