East Cheshire Hospice Hosts Monthly 'Time to Remember' Service
The East Cheshire Hospice chapel is home to a heartfelt monthly tradition known as 'Time to Remember'. This service invites family and friends of patients who passed away three months prior, offering a dedicated space for reflection and honor.
A Personal Journey of Remembrance
Ann McLoughlin, from Macclesfield, attended the service nearly a year ago to light a candle in memory of her husband, Kevin. Kevin, who worked for the insurance company Royal London, was a keen runner whose life was celebrated during the gathering. Ann was accompanied by Kevin's father, Patrick, and was deeply moved by the turnout.
She shared her thoughts, saying: "What struck me the most was the number of names read out. There were 56 patients who had passed away during the same month as Kevin. That's a lot of patients for the doctors and nurses to look after till the end."
Ann described the service as beautiful, noting that the chapel was filled with immediate family and friends, all coming together to remember lost loved ones.
Structure and Impact of the Service
Conducted by Hospice chaplain Marion Tugwood, the services are by invitation only and typically see an average attendance of 30 guests. They provide a simple, reflective environment where individuals can remember their loved ones alongside others experiencing similar journeys of loss and grief.
A recording of the latest service is available on the hospice website, allowing those unable to attend in person to participate remotely.
Additional Memorial Opportunities
In addition to the service, Ann plans to dedicate a leaf to Kevin on the Memory Tree located in the Hospice garden. She admits that choosing the dedication to engrave on the leaf is one of her most difficult decisions.
Ann explained: "It's hard to know what to put. I'm sure I'll find something that's appropriate to remember Kevin." This initiative offers another way for families to create lasting tributes to their loved ones.
The 'Time to Remember' service underscores the hospice's commitment to supporting bereaved families, providing both communal and personal avenues for remembrance during challenging times.
