HILO, Hawaii: This weekend was the Celebration of Life at the Wailoa State Park. The big – and emotional – annual event put together by Hospice of Hilo.

After the “Memory Walk” around the park, people gathered by the water with their custom luminary floats. There, the “Lights of Remembrance” ceremony was launched, as the custom lanterns were floated down the river.

We spoke to the Kekoa ‘ohana at the event. Donna, Lani and Nona spoke about how Hospice guided their family matriarch through the final chapter of her life. We also spoke to Hospice of Hilo CEO Brenda Ho.

The event is designed to celebrate life and share in remembrance of loved ones. Participants shared stories and learned about programs provided by Hospice of Hilo.

Hospice provides emotional and medical support to patients and families facing a life-limiting illness and injury, through holistic care provided by nurses, social workers, counselors and trained volunteers. Hospice care focuses on quality of life and honors the dignity of each individual, offering care and comfort when cure is no longer possible. Proceeds will benefit Hospice of Hilo, a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization serving East Hawaii from Laupahoehoe to South Point since 1983.