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Wings of Remembrance: A Reflection
 "What began with many conversations and months of planning came together as a truly special day for our community. Here at Huron Shores Hospice, we wanted to create an opportunity for people to gather, remember loved ones, and find connection with others. Grief can be such an isolating time, which makes connection and community gatherings so important.
From reaching out to more than 50 community groups, sharing the event at the Southampton Market, a radio interview with 99.7 Shoreline Classics, there were so many community groups and advertisements involved to reach the audience that we were able to reach, with over 170 butterflies adopted!
The 40-minute ceremony brought together staff, volunteers, families, and community members to remember and honour those we have lost. I remember smiling as I saw extra chairs being brought out to accommodate all the event attendees, and that is when I truly recognized how significant this event was for the community. The poems, the reading of names, and the moment of silence all created such meaningful moments of reflection. It was especially wonderful to see people of all ages, from infants to older adults, enjoying the event and coming together to share stories about their loved ones, who they honored.
Butterflies are often seen as symbols of hope, transformation, and remembrance, making them a beautiful way to honour loved ones. Although the weather initially didn’t look promising, the sunshine came out just in time for the release. The butterflies filled the garden, with many landing on the flowers and oranges we had thoughtfully placed for them.
I am so grateful to the Butterfly Release Committee: Cheryl Rogers, Cheryl Cottrill, Diane Allingham-Hawkins, Diane Nicholson, Liz White, Aprille Fox, Eugene Dufour, Jessica Daneluk, and Cathy Herbert, along with our day-of volunteers, Bailey Fagan and Grace Daneluk. Everyone was so wonderful and supportive of the very first annual memorial release. Another thank you goes out to everyone who attended the event, whether it was to enjoy the ceremony or those who purchased butterflies, I appreciate everyone for supporting the hospice and making the event so memorable. We hope to see everyone again next year! " |
Sophie Nancekivell Community Development Worker Summer Student Huron Shores Hospice |
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