Blog: A cuddle and a catch-up

“As soon as I enter Exeter Cathedral I make a beeline for Liz for a cuddle and a catch up!”

It’s not me being talked about but Liz, one of our amazing bereavement supporter volunteers. I was at Hospiscare’s Light Up A Life Service in the cathedral and met a lady who comes along every year.

She comes for two reasons, to remember her mum and catch up with Liz. When her mum died she found that our care continues with a dedicated support volunteer.

It was the first time I had attended this service and it was exactly as everyone had described to me; a lovely evening of quiet reflection, beautiful music, uplifting songs and dance.

I had read on Facebook that Kevin Mills and his family who live in Wonford, were coming along. They have started a family tradition of attending the service. Kevin’s mum Brenda died last New Year’s Day after being cared for by Hospiscare.

He said of the service: “Everyone feels the sadness of those they have lost, and the way those loved ones had to leave us.... but the love comes through, and it’s a place where you go and you know you are not alone. It brings good memories and I draw a lot of strength from it.”

Yes, there were some tears at the service but the mood was uplifting and thoughtful. It was a wonderful way to remember a loved one at Christmas.

Just finished writing this and took a phone call about lots of fundraising for Hospiscare in Heavitree’s Royal Oak pub – so I’ll be heading there in the New Year to find out more – a good way to start 2016!

Until then it’s time for me to wish Exeter Daily readers a Merry Christmas and I look forward to catching up with you all again next year with more reflections of working for a charity focussed on care and love.

For more details about the service please see the news section.