Fiona Lee’s mum, June Benbow, died at St Catherine's in 2008 and Fiona and her family attended our Tree of Light Service in 2008.  Here she shares her thoughts on that experience:

“As the nights draw in and winter approaches, it’s a welcome time of the year to have an event that unites everyone in celebration of a life lived.

In 2008 we were invited, in honour of mum, to turn on the lights at the Tree of Light Service by St Catherine’s. This service was important to us as a family as it gave us an opportunity to remember the passing of a loved one at this special time of year.

Tree of Light provided a positive focus as we approached a time that can be very difficult to deal with. We felt able to draw strength and comfort from the presence of others at the service who may have shared similar experiences. The service offered hope, and the sense that there is light ahead and the possibility of moving forward.

It also felt very symbolic to hang a dedication on the tree. It bought together the entire family from young to old, a generation of memories.  For me, it helped somehow to channel my thoughts and draw strength for the year ahead”.

Fiona Lee