Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, Cumbria’s Children’s Hospice is preparing to mark the 25th anniversary of its cherished annual fundraising appeal – Light up a Life – with a special service at Carlisle Cathedral this week.
Since 1998 the charity’s appeal has invited people to donate in memory of a loved one and support their local hospice – enabling more patients and families to access specialist and compassionate care at a time when it is needed most.
The Light up a Life appeal and the accompanying events have become a beacon of support for patients, families and caregivers, providing solace during challenging times. This remarkable milestone is an opportunity to reflect and highlight the unwavering commitment of the hospice and its community.
There have been many updates and improvements to the hospice over the last 25 years – in particular the crucial addition of the children’s hospice in 1998 and rebrand to ‘Jigsaw’ in 2014.
The number of staff has increased dramatically as well as the level of expertise and quality of care always progressing. Today, the hospice is highly regarded as a specialist organisation in palliative care, all of which has only been made possible thanks to the support of the local community.
Cathedral service
The flagship Light up a Life event will take place on Friday 8th December at 7.30pm at Carlisle Cathedral which anyone is welcome to attend and will provide an opportunity to remember loved ones whose memory continues to shine. The event will feature a special programme including the specially formed Staff and Volunteer Choir, readings, music and time to reflect.
A smaller, more intimate gathering at the hospice itself took place on Sunday 26th November
These events serve as a poignant reminder of the hospice’s legacy of kindness and the countless lives it has touched over the years.
Charlotte Young, relationship fundraiser at the hospice, said, “As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of Light up a Life, we reflect on the profound impact our hospice has had on the community. These events not only honour the memories of those we have lost but also showcases the strength of our community bonds. We invite everyone to join us in this meaningful celebration, embracing the spirit of togetherness that has defined our hospice for more than a quarter of a century.”
How to donate
To donate as part of the Light up a Life appeal please visit: edenvalleyhospice.org/light-up-a-life-2023.
