Light up a Life sparkles as loved ones are remembered at annual service - Page 2

People from across the region gathered at Event Northumbria in Newcastle last night for St Oswald Hospice’s annual Light up a Life event.

Over 400 guests joined together to remember their loved ones in a service filled with light and love.

On arrival, guests were able to enjoy performances by Frank Zuccaroli and Robson’s Choice. Music during the service was provided by Newcastle Concert Band who played a selection of festive favourites, and later accompanied ‘The Gathering of the Stars’ procession.

The service opened with a warm welcome from Angela Egdell, Director of Care at St Oswald’s Hospice, who then handed over to Davina Radford, Spiritual Care Lead and Fiona Boyd, Chaplain, to lead this special service.

The evening included thoughtful reflections and memories, interspersed with music, readings and moments of quiet.

During the service, guests were introduced to Michael Jackson who shared a moving tribute to his wife, the late Reverend Janet Jackson. Janet served as the Chaplain at St Oswald’s Hospice for 13 years and during her tenure, played a key part in establishing the Light up a Life service.

Michael said, “Janet was a remarkable person and a very effective chaplain with St Oswald’s Hospice. This event [Light up a Life] grew from a small gathering around a Christmas tree to a much larger event at the Newcastle Arena. Janet knew just how much it meant to people.

She had the courage to stand with people at the very darkest times in their lives, to be there with them, and she also had the wisdom to say what needed to be said, to help bring light into that deep darkness.”

Local author and illustrator Stacey McNeill, from Fox Under the Moon, reflected on her connection with St Oswald’s Hospice.

Stacey said, “Fox Under the Moon finds ways to say the things that matter, in beautiful ways. Grief, love, hope and light are all part of that and I like to put a bit of comfort, light and hope back into the world.

Whilst I don’t have a direct personal connection, I have crossed paths with many people who do, and it’s lovely to be invited to be part of this evening and to share some words of encouragement and comfort with you all.”

Stacey then read her poem written especially for the service, “The Forest and the Stars.”

Karen Crowley shared her precious memories of her husband, Mike, who died at the Hospice in 2021, aged 35. Reflecting on their experience of hospice care, Karen said, “The care and support we all received spanned three key phases. Mike was able to come to the Hospice for blood transfusions.

When Mike was admitted in the final days of his life, I was able to be his wife again and not his carer which meant such a lot. Following his death, we have received support from the bereavement counsellors.

Mike loved the outdoors and the garden spaces at St Oswald’s Hospice continue to be a place of comfort for me and the family when we visit Mike’s leaf on the tribute tree.”