Nearly 300 luminaries gently floated down the Wailoa River at Hospice of Hilo’s 11th annual Celebration of Life.
Nearly 300 luminaries gently floated down the Wailoa River at Hospice of Hilo’s 11th annual Celebration of Life.
The community fundraiser, garnering support to help Hospice of Hilo deliver compassionate care to patients throughout East Hawaii, brought together more than 500 residents from the region to walk in memory of their loved ones and personalize luminaries that were released at sunset.
“It is truly magical to see this event unfold,” said Hospice of Hilo CEO Brenda Ho. “Watching families and friends gather on the lawn or under the pavilion, enjoy the music, design luminaries, participate in the Walk of Remembrance, and watch the glowing lights sail down the river at dusk. It is so special to see the outpouring of love and support.”
More than $48,000 was raised from this year’s effort, which directly will benefit the patients and families residing in East Hawaii seeking support from Hospice of Hilo in their time of need.
Allan Onishi, event chairman, thanked the major sponsors — Subway, Big Island Candies, Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corp., UHA Health Insurance and Sidney Fuke — who helped make the event possible and continue to support Hospice of Hilo.
Hospice of Hilo provides specialized comfort care for patients facing a life-limiting or serious illness. Services are delivered to patients in their place of residence, or in the Pohai Malama a Harry &Jeanette Weinberg Care Center.
For more information about Hospice of Hilo and its programs, call 969-1733 or visit www.hospiceofhilo.org.