Celebrate a Life
The holiday season is a time for sharing memories of family and friends who are no longer with us.
Join us in celebrating a life.
Celebrate a Life: a memorial time of reflection and remembrance
Sunday, December 8, 1:30-3pm
Join us to remember and celebrate our loved ones who have died. The Spiritual Care Team will lead us through a quiet time of words, music and candle lighting.
All are welcome!
Location: Woodward Hall in the Administration building at RJH. Complimentary Parking available in lot J directly behind the Administration Building.
Sponsored by Earth’s Option
Dedicate a Star
Since 1985, Celebrate a Life has provided a unique opportunity for people to remember their loved ones. Each year hundreds of tributes are hung on our festive tree. This year, stop by the 4th Floor of Victoria Hospice from December 1 – 23 to hang a star in honour of a friend or loved one you have lost. You can also request a star be mailed to you by calling 250-519-1744 or dedicate a star online.
Stars in Memory
Click on stars to read recent tributes.
My Tribute To:
Margaret and Neil Yardley
My Message:
You are always with me
From:
Stephanie
My Tribute To:
Norm and Winn Clarke and Rae Terlson
My Message:
Missing you still at this time of year. The years go by but the memories are here forever
From:
Bev Clarke
My Tribute To:
Rex Langman
My Message:
It’s been 20 years since you left us. We miss always. Louise,Todd,Nath,Amelia and Marie
From:
Louise Langman
My Tribute To:
Malcolm & Margaret Macphail
My Message:
In memory and gratitude to my wonderful parents
From:
Miriam
My Tribute To:
Aunty Jane
My Message:
I miss you more than you know. My pie making is lacking… Love you forever,
From:
Michelle
My Tribute To:
My Dad
My Message:
Another Christmas without you Dad. You made it so special. I miss you but I know you are still with me – xoxo
From:
Pooh Bear
Dedicate a Star
View All Stars
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Grief and the Holidays
For many people, the holidays can be the most difficult time of the year. Memories of past celebrations with family members or friends who are no longer here can magnify feelings of loss, and you may feel unsure about how—or even if—to celebrate this year.
Grief has a timing of its own, sometimes appearing – or disappearing – when we least expect it. If you experience this ebb and flow of feelings – even years after your loved one died – understand that it is common and a normal aspect of the grieving process.
Tips for Coping with Grief Over the Holidays
- Decide how you want to spend the holiday.
Allow yourself to think about what you most need and want to do. It’s OK if you want to change things completely, just a little, or not at all.
- Plan your activities in advance.
Before the holiday season is in full swing, create a plan that can be adjusted according to your needs. Let people who are important to you know what your plans are and if you are open to invitations.
- Expect things to be different.
Holidays are often spent with the people we are closest to and you are missing someone important. You may be feeling down and not up to your usual activities. However, you may also enjoy seeing people and participating in some events.
- Take time to care for yourself.
Allow yourself to feel whatever you feel and to spend time alone or with others as needed. Take time out for rest and physical activity and avoid over-indulging in food and/or alcohol.
- Be flexible about holiday traditions.
Without the person you’ve lost, you may not be able to do all the holiday things you’d normally do. Consider reducing or foregoing activities that aren’t essential, and asking for help with anything you’d like to continue.
- Give to others.
Sometimes the sadness and loneliness of grief during the holidays can be lightened a little by caring for others. Consider hosting a pre- or post-holiday gathering for friends and family or perhaps volunteering at a local shelter or charity.
- Do something to remember your loved one.
You may want to continue a favourite tradition or start something new. Perhaps an annual walk in a special place, or creating a special ornament or decoration, or even making a holiday food item that your loved one particularly enjoyed.
Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors
