HOSPICE HOLIDAY GATHERING
12/7/2005
HOSPICE HOLIDAY GATHERING
On Sunday, December 11, 2005, from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m.,Hospice of Wilkes Regional Medical Center will hold its annual Holiday Gathering at the Wayland Fellowship Hall at First Baptist Church in North Wilkesboro. The event is open to all families that have been served by Hospice of Wilkes.
The afternoon includes a program of handbell music by the Wilkesboro United Methodist Church Carillonneurs, a brief meditation led by Hospice Chaplain Fred Brason, and Christmas music and group carol singing led by Karen Brason, Hospice volunteer. The Wilkes Service League and the Wilkes Regional Medical Center Dietary Department will be providing refreshments.
The highlight of the event each year is the Christmas trees on which ornaments are hung to commemorate each patient who has been served by Hospice over the years. There are now seven trees with ornaments bearing the names of patients. Family members who have lost a loved one over the past year will be given the opportunity to hang an ornament in their loved ones' memory. Staff and volunteers will hang those from previous years.
This is an opportunity for families Hospice has served, the volunteers who have helped them, and staff members to be together again for fellowship and the renewing of friendships. It is also a time for those who have lost loved ones to meet and share experiences with others who are in a similar situation. The holidays can be difficult when there is an empty place at the table. This annual event is planned to add warmth and joy to the holiday season for our Hospice families.
Hospice is a team of professionals who specialize in providing hope and care with dignity for someone who is not expected to live more than six months. The program provides emotional support to families as well. Hospice assists patients to remain at home in their final months and days where they can enjoy comfort and peace near family and loved ones. Hospice of Wilkes Regional Medical Center and is a local United Way Agency.
