Remembering loved ones: Hospice of Hilo invites public to annual Celebration of Life

Hospice of Hilo invites the public to its 13th annual Celebration of Life walk and floating lantern ceremony starting at 5 p.m. April 30 at Wailoa State Park.

“Celebration of Life is a beautiful and profound ceremony that contributes to healing those undergoing their individual journeys of grief,” said Hospice of Hilo community bereavement counselor Cathy Hough. “Walking together is uplifting, and watching the twinkling lights from the lanterns as they float down the river is a moving sight.”

Early registration is suggested for the family friendly event. Participants can dedicate a 2-mile walk around Wailoa State Park while raising funds to support compassionate care in East Hawaii. In addition, people can purchase a commemorative lantern in memory of a cherished loved one.

“The cost of delivering the care our community needs often exceeds the reimbursements received from insurance companies,” said Hospice of Hilo CEO Brenda Ho. “Donor support of our programs through events like Celebration of Life helps provide the wheelchair and the oxygen, reduces a family’s anxiety in the face of illness, brings comfort to patients in pain and helps children in grief smile again.”

Those interested in pre-registering for the walk or purchasing a lantern can visit www.hospiceofhilo.org or call Lisa Kwee at 969-1733. Registration and lantern purchases also can be done the day of the celebration.

Luminaries are $20 before event day and $25 if purchased at the celebration. Prizes will be awarded to teams and individuals who raise the most funds. Registration opens at 3:30 p.m. on event day, with the walk beginning at 5 p.m. followed by the release of luminaries in the river at 7 p.m.