December is the festive season and is considered a universal time for the gathering of family and friends. However, Christmas for some is not always a happy occasion, especially when grieving the loss of a loved one.

Clinical Nurse Specialist Marilyn McCarthy working with Armidale Community Health said the Christmas period may renew a sense of personal grief unlike that experienced in the routine of daily living.

"It may be a vivid reminder of time spent with that special person and that love does not end with death," she said.

"It is very normal to feel sad that the person is no longer with you and you need not shut those feelings away. Remembering special people with love, can be a significant part of the healing process," she said.

To acknowledge this special time Armidale Hospital will hold its annual Christmas Remembrance Service on Thursday 13 December 2007 in the Armidale Hospital Chapel, starting at 11am.

"It will be a time to reflect on the life of and embrace all the good things about the person who has died. It’s a special time for each person to experience their feelings of loss and allow themselves to express their grief openly with the support of experienced staff members if needed," she said.

For further information, please contact Marilyn McCarthy on 6776 9792 or Pam Pateman on 6776 9761.