Christmas tree messages offered

EVERY year, Hywel Dda University Health Board’s Their Light Still Shines service at the National Botanic Garden of Wales in Carmarthenshire provides an opportunity to remember loved ones who have passed and to celebrate their lives during the festive period.

Due to the ongoing pandemic and social distancing requirements organisers have said it is not able to host the service to the public this year as it usually would.

In its place the health board has launched its Loved Forever campaign where people are invited to send an online message to remember and reflect on the happier times with someone they have lost either during the Covid-19 pandemic or previous years.

The messages will be placed on the Christmas tree and a light will be lit daily from December 10 up until Christmas Day.

Euryl Howells, senior chaplain for Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “Christmas is a family time and for many years people who attend this service tell us they find a great deal of comfort as they remember family, friends and colleagues no longer with us.

“It is normally a season of happiness and celebration, but for those who have lost someone they love, it can also be a time of great sadness. Grieving those who have died has been especially difficult this year and last, often without the proximity of family and close friends who can provide real comfort and support, therefore it was important to continue our remembrance.

“Unfortunately this year, while we haven’t been able to offer an online service of remembrance and thanksgiving before Christmas, we understand the importance of celebrating the lives of our loved ones and that is why we are offering the Christmas tree messages.”

For more information, or to send a message, email loved.forever.hdd@ wales.nhs.uk or contact Euryl Howells, senior chaplain on 01267 227563.