South Westmeath Hospice is one of 26 hospices nationwide affording full support to the ‘Virtual Sunflower Remembrance Garden’ initiative.
Launched by ‘Together for Hospice’, the national hospice movement, the initiative is an online space which has been created for individuals and families to dedicate a virtual sunflower in memory of a loved one, whilst helping to raise much-needed funds for the local palliative care unit.
“The last year has been incredibly challenging for many people in our communities and our intention is that this Virtual Sunflower Remembrance Garden will provide a poignant and meaningful space for members of the community to remember loved ones, whilst also supporting the integral work of local hospice and specialist palliative community services. Together we remember all those we have lost and together we can make a real difference to those in hospice care and their families,” Clare Lennon, Chairperson, South Westmeath Hospice, commented, upon the initiative launch.
The virtual sunflower remembrance garden, will run for the full month of June 2021. During the month members of the public are invited to dedicate a virtual sunflower in memory of a loved one and make a donation to their local hospice at www.togetherforhospice.ie/sunflowerdays These dedications can be shared with friends or family members to let them know they are in your thoughts, with every euro raised going directly to the local hospice service.
The initiative was prompted by the cancellation of the annual Hospice Sunflower Days on-street collection for the second year in a row, and the devastating impact of Covid-19 on Hospices nationwide and their ability to fundraise. Hospice Sunflower Days is slightly different this year, so be sure to keep an eye out for your local hospice’s activities for more information on what is happening throughout Hospice Sunflower Days this June.
Coordinated by Together for Hospice, the National Hospice Movement, this new remembrance campaign aims to raise much needed funds for hospice and specialist palliative home care services nationwide. Across Ireland, Hospices need to raise approximately €20million each year and all funds raised will directly support your local hospice, enabling them to continue to provide person-centred, holistic and loving care to patients and their loved ones free of charge.
For more information and details of your local hospice and homecare service log onto www.togetherforhospice.ie/sunflowerdays
