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.
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 trees. This year, stop by the Community Support Centre between December 6 – 12 to hang a star. You can request a star ornament be mailed to you or dedicate a star online.
Stars in Memory
Click on stars to read recent tributes.
My Tribute To:
Jack and Anne Nixon
My Message:
You are our Northstar and guide us every day❤️
From:
Shelley Kim Chuck Kevin Sarah Jack Henry Carlie Ross Paige and Ben❤️
My Tribute To:
Lynne Huestis
My Message:
We love and miss you.
From:
Rae
My Tribute To:
Ivore Turner
My Message:
We love you and miss you every day!
From:
Sheila & Brian Turner & Julie Stevenson
My Tribute To:
Marie Warner
My Message:
Miss you always, Mom…especially at Xmas time. Your kitchen always smelled the best at Xmas. xoxoxo
From:
Julie, Richard, Sam, Dylan and Georgia
My Tribute To:
Kitty, Mom, Chad, Andrew
My Message:
Always in our hearts, always remembered, always loved.
From:
Mike, Mae & Mark
My Tribute To:
Pamela Sue Martin
My Message:
I know this is your favorite time of the year. You are greatly missed by your family. Love Niles
From:
Niles Martin
Sharing of the Lights
In previous years, we have come together at UVic’s Multifaith Chapel for a beautiful ceremony of light and memory led by Victoria Hospice’s Spiritual Health Coordinator. This year, we are offering a virtual option to reflect and remember the lives that have been shared with us. Click ‘play’ below to start the video.
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.
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