Wirral Life January 2020 | Page 86

LIGHTING UP A LIFE FOR WIRRAL HOSPICE ST JOHN’S The cold and blustery conditions didn’t deter nearly 2,000 people from attending the Light up a Life switch-on and carol service at Wirral Hospice St John’s on Sunday 8th December. 10,000 lights shone out from the hospice trees as a moving celebration of the lives of all those loved ones we remember at this time of year. People choose to sponsor a light in memory of family members and friends and all the names are recorded in Books of Honour which are available to view at the hospice throughout the festive period. Christine Sutcliffe, Director of Clinical Services, welcomed everyone with a message of hope while recognising people’s natural sadness. Further carols, poems and a prayer struck a poignant note before Wirral singer, Sarah Mullis, captured all of the emotion in a heartfelt rendition of, In the Arms of an Angel. Tracie Powell with her daughter Kerry and grandchildren, Morgan and Jeyda, switched on the lights in memory of husband, dad and grandad, Allan Powell, who had received the specialist care and support services of the hospice in 2018. Tracie said, “It was such a great honour to switch on the lights for Wirral Hospice St John’s. "I know that the hospice has a special place for many, many people and to share in this special occasion will stay in our hearts forever. "The love, care and support dedicated to Allan, myself and my family, is so greatly appreciated.” 86 wirrallife.com