The annual Treetops Light Up a Life appeal invites people to make a dedication in memory of a loved one, to shine as a light on the hospice Christmas tree.
The tree lights are normally switched on during a special memorial service held at the hospice in Risley, but due to COVID-19 restrictions on mass gatherings, this year, the service cannot take place.
Knowing the significance of the ceremony for those who have been bereaved, either during the pandemic or in previous years, the hospice approached Think3 for help.
Think3’s production director and co-founder, Luke Smith, has worked with Treetops for several weeks, free-of-charge, to film and edit the service which will be screened to the public on Sunday 6 December at 5pm.
Gone above and beyond with their support
Luke Smith from Think3 with Lorraine Ray from Treetops
Lorraine Ray, Treetops community relationships manager, explained more:
“Grieving those who have died has been especially difficult this year, often without the proximity of family and close friends who can provide real comfort and support.
“Light Up a Life is an opportunity to take a few moments to remember someone special in our lives, reflect on happier times, and watch as the lights on our tree shine in their memory.
“Think3 have been wonderful supporters of the hospice for some time and we approached them with the mammoth task of helping us move our normal service – with readings, poems and music – online so that people wouldn’t miss out.
“They have gone above and beyond with their support, providing us with their expertise free of charge and as a result, hundreds of people and families will be able to tune in to watch the service safely.
“We cannot thank Think3 enough for their fantastic support and generosity and we hope as many people as possible from across the city, county and further afield can join us on Sunday 6 December.”
Annual event that brings so much peace and comfort to the people of Derby
Luke from Think3 said:
“From start to finish, it’s been an absolute pleasure to work with Treetops and to support our local hospice during these trying times for us all.
“Think3 have always strived to support our local community in any way we can. When Treetops approached us about the Light Up A Life service, we jumped at the chance to turn this annual event that brings so much peace and comfort to the people of Derby, into a truly exceptional livestream.”
Treetops provides nursing care and emotional support for adults with life-limiting conditions, as well as those who have been bereaved. Last year, the hospice supported over 1,800 patients and their families.
Over 500 Light Up a Life dedications have been made online to date. Dedications, including a photo and personal messages, can be made by anyone who wishes to remember a loved one. The online service is available from 5pm on Sunday 6 December and includes music and readings.
Further information on making a dedication and viewing the online service is available online.