This festive season – time to remember

10 December

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.

Rural Cancer Care Co-ordinator Jo Bindley working with Armidale Oncology Clinic 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,” Mrs Bindley 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.”

To acknowledge this special time Armidale Hospital will hold its annual Christmas Remembrance Service on Thursday 11 December 2008 in the Armidale Hospital Chapel, starting at 10am, followed by morning tea.

“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,” Mrs Bindley said

For further information or to RSVP for catering purposes, please contact Jo Bindley on 6776 9761.

Contact: Emma Gibbs

Phone: 6767 7137 or 0428 114 767