Hospice’s Light Up a Life appeal is set to return

BARNSLEY Hospice’s Light Up a Life appeal has returned this year.

The event encourages residents to join the hospice’s first in-person service since 2019 and dedicate a light in memory of someone important.

Christmas trees will shine brightly with hundreds of lights on the grounds of the hospice and at St Mary’s Church – with each light representing a loved one.

There will be two religious services held at St Mary’s on December 4 – at 3.30pm and 7pm – and then a non-religious service at Barnsley Hospice on December 8, kicking off at 7pm.

Each donation made through the appeal goes towards helping those at the hospice.

Steph Millington, whose family the hospice has supported, said the event is ‘such an important’ part of the festive period.

She said: “When I visited my mum in the hospice for the first time, it felt like the whole family was scooped up into a massive hug by everyone there.

“My mum had been hesitant to go to the hospice initially because she was frightened it meant she’d never come home. However, within a couple of hours of Mmm being there, the difference in her was unbelievable.

“During mum’s two stays at the hospice, the team made sure she was always comfortable and could enjoy the things she loved doing.

“Christmas has been difficult since we lost my mum.

“She spent so much time making sure this time of year was perfect for the whole family that it’s impossible to think of Christmas without thinking of her.

“I started attending Light up a Life the December after Mum died, and it’s been an important part of Christmas ever since.

“Taking part in Light up a Life makes me feel closer to loved ones who are no longer here.

“It’s a moment of calm throughout the festivities, and by donating, I am helping to ensure other families have the support we did.”

To get involved with the appeal, visit the Barnsley Hospice website.