Hospice of Hilo benefit pays tribute to memory of those departed

Video by David Corrigan

For the 6th year, the beauty of floating lanterns dotted the Wailoa River in memory of loved ones lost.

Every year, Hospice of Hilo invites the community to share remembrance and celebrate life at Wailoa State Park. Although the “Lights of Remembrance” are the picturesque hallmark of the event, the festivities also include a 2.25 mile walk, food, and live entertainment under the large park pavilion.

“This will be a family and community celebration of the entire span of life─from our energetic children to our wise elders,” said Phillip Jones, Hospice of Hilo Spiritual Counselor, in a media release before the event. “We’ll be honoring, through performance, music and speech, the special gifts of each stage of life, and especially how we’re all connected to one another.”

Hospice of Hilo, a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization, has served East Hawaii from Laupahoehoe to South Point since 1983. Hospice of Hilo says it is “a family centered approach to end-of-life care that includes nurses, social workers, counselors and trained volunteers. Hospice care offers emotional and medical support to patients and families facing a life limiting illness and injury. Focused on quality of life, Hospice honors the dignity of each individual. Offering care and comfort when cure is no longer possible.”

This year, uncooperative tides and a deluge of rain did not hasten the heartfelt observance.

Proceeds from the 2010 Celebration of Life will benefit the patients and families served by Hospice of Hilo.