12 Dec 2024 Community

The Kirkwood Movement comes together for Light Up A Life

Despite the wet and windy December weather, The Kirkwood’s annual Light Up a Life events shone brightly, offering a heartfelt evening of remembrance and reflection for all who attended. 

Hosted across two venues, The Kirkwood Gardens in Huddersfield and Longcauseway Church in Dewsbury, this cherished tradition united the community in love, hope, and shared memories.

From the moment visitors arrived at the hospice, they were greeted with a warm sense of togetherness. 

The peaceful atmosphere of The Kirkwood Gardens was beautifully complemented by the harmonious melodies of the Hade Edge Brass Band, whose performance set an uplifting yet reflective tone. Between the musical interludes, audiences were captivated by the moving performance from Beaumont Academy Singer: Isla Jones, the Huddersfield Gospel Choir, and St Paul’s Methodist Church, whose voices resonated through the cold evening air.

The heartfelt poetry readings and prayers created a touching atmosphere, offering comfort and connection as attendees remembered their loved ones. A beautiful piano performance added a moment of quiet reflection, perfectly complementing the evening's contemplative mood.

The impact of the event’s were captured through the heartfelt reflections of attendees, each of whom shared their personal connection to The Kirkwood and the Light Up a Life service.

Lauren, Nicola, and Leone attended to honour their father, John, said: "We are remembering our father John, who was cared for by The Kirkwood for a week in November this year. The care he received was amazing, and we couldn’t thank the team enough."

On the service, they added: "It was our first Light Up a Life service, and we really enjoyed being able to come back here to remember our dad. When the tree lit up, it made us happy but emotional too, remembering him. Dad was an amazing father, a terrific man who was down to earth and humble. We’ll be coming back to the service next year. It’s a great thing the hospice does."

Alison, who attended to remember her father, Peter, shared: "I come to Light Upa Life to remember my dad, who The Kirkwood cared for before his death eight and a half years ago. Christmas is about family, and I want to be near my dad, remembering him."

Reflecting on the symbolic tree lighting, she said: "When the tree lights up, I smile. I also think about the people in those in patient rooms and hope seeing the tree lit up brings them a bit of joy. The Kirkwood means everything to me; the kindness they showed my dad will never be forgotten."

Arnold who was there to light a candle in memory of his beloved wife commented: “I'm remembering my wife Elizabeth who died in January 2023, She was cared for in Huddersfield hospital, she was going to come into The Kirkwood however the consultant at the hospital said she wouldn’t be well enough to make the journey from the hospital to the hospice. She died a few days after that conversation was had. 

“Even though my wife wasn’t cared for in The Kirkwood I do think the charity is an amazing place and movement of people. I have supported the charity for a long time and believe they do wonderful work in how they care for people.” 

Others, like Ellie-Mae, and Lisa, echoed similar sentiments, expressing gratitude for the event and the opportunity it provides to reflect, connect, and remember.

Lisa, who remembers her mother Mavis, noted: "We love coming to Light Up a Life, it’s one special night a year where I can think of my mum. It’s a wonderful moment that brings everybody together. The Kirkwood is an amazing charity, and we need to do everything we can to keep its doors open so it can continue caring for people in the special way it does."

Ellie May who is remembering her mum says: ““My mum Freda was cared for by The Kirkwood fourteen years ago. We are regular attendees of the Light Up a Life service. It's lovely that the community all comes together and supports each other. When the tree lights up, it's beautiful.

“I think it's a really nice way of reflecting and giving people time to think about the people they really care about and love. 

“I've supported The Kirkwood ever since my mum was here through different charity events. It's really nice to see everyone support the charity too especially through events like Light Up a Life.”

As the event reached its crescendo, the lighting of the tree created a breathtaking display. Each light symbolised a dedication to a loved one, illuminating the gardens with a tangible sense of connection and remembrance.

Rachael Savage, The Kirkwood’s Events manager, expressed her gratitude and reflected on the event’s significance.

She said: "Light Up a Life is such a poignant and cherished event for everyone involved. It’s a time for our community to come together, reflect, and honour the memories of loved ones. Seeing the tree illuminated with dedications reminds us of the power of remembrance and the strength we find in supporting one another.

"I’d like to thank all the performers, The Kirkwood staff and volunteers, and everyone who took part in this year’s Light Up a Life. Your support makes this event so special."

The Kirkwood expressed heartfelt thanks to Ayre Events for their technical support, their dedicated employees and volunteers, and all who contributed to the event whether through donations of mince pies and refreshments or behind the scenes administration by individuals like Doreen Taylor.

For those unable to attend in person, a live stream was made available, ensuring the event could be shared far and wide. This inclusive approach allowed more people to partake in the meaningful celebration from the comfort of their homes. You can watch the live stream by clicking the link HERE. 

As the evening came to a close, attendees lingered in the illuminated gardens, united in their shared memories and the knowledge that they were part of something truly special. Light Up a Life is more than an event it is a testament to enduring love, community compassion, and the power of remembrance.