Bernard remembers his wife Cath at Trees of Love each year
We have been sharing messages from our wonderful Trees of Love supporters over the past few weeks. Thank you Bernard Packer, who remembers his wife Cath at Trees of Love each year.
“I’ll never forget the day I met Cath, and the tingle that went up my arm when we first shook hands.
Cath (known as Kath to her friends) was the love of my life, always lit up a room, and we were happily married with four children for 65 years.
When she first started showing signs of dementia we did our best to look after her at home, but eventually accepted that she needed more specialist care. The hospice supported Cath and our whole family throughout, and it was them who identified when it was time for her to come into the hospice for her final few days.
The minute we came into the Hospice we realised what an incredibly special place it was. It was so calm, and everyone was so kind. They allowed us to just be with her, without any pressure, and made sure she was comfortable and surrounded by our family right to the end. I can’t thank them enough for everything they did.
Even now, three years on, I still feel supported by the hospice with invitations to these remembrance events. Trees of Love gives me another way to remember Cath at this special time of year. Although there’s no actual event this year, I’m looking forward to the film as it means that the whole family can be involved; even our children who live far away and wouldn’t usually be able to attend, can watch the film and remember their unforgettable mum.”
Trees of Love, east Kent’s largest remembrance services, will this year be transformed into a remembrance you enjoy from the comfort and safety of home.
Instead of our usual remembrance events with carols, those taking part will be sent a beautiful dove to dedicate and hang on your Christmas tree, or in a special place at home.
Then on Saturday 5th December 2020 at 5pm we will release a Trees of Love 2020 remembrance service for you to watch on the Pilgrims Hospices YouTube channel and website.
To take part click here to complete the online donation form, or contact Supporter Relations on 01227 782062.
Each year Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
10th November 2020
High Sheriff, Remony remembers her father at Pilgrims Trees of Love remembrance service
Remony Millwater holds the special position of High Sheriff of Kent for 2020/21; here she shares warm messages with the community, especially those who have been supported and care for by Pilgrims Hospices.
She will be part of the annual Trees of Love remembrance in December saying: “My father, Edward Brice received care from Pilgrims Hospices Home Care team, we were very grateful for their special care and comfort provided for Dad and our family during and after he passed away in the summer of 2011.
Both of my parents were strong Pilgrims Hospices supporters and I wish to continue to be an important part of Pilgrims too
Remony Millwater – High Sheriff of Kent
“Dad died very suddenly, his quick deterioration of about 3 weeks came after a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer I remember it well; he was attending the Golf Open on 10th July then became unwell extremely quickly.”
Remony explained: “Both of my parents were strong Pilgrims Hospices supporters and I wish to continue to be an important part of Pilgrims too.
“I became part of the Sandwich fundraising group in 2012 and was secretary with them for two years.”
My father held the position of High Sheriff 40 years ago, I’m very proud to also have the role that has been an important part of our family history, as my Grandfather held the position in 1965, my Father in 1980 and now myself in 2020.
The High Sheriff is nominated for a five year term and it’s a wonderful opportunity to engage with the local community and raise awareness for important charities such a Pilgrims Hospices.
The role is voluntary with no subsidies and appointed by The Queen as her representative for law and order.
“I will be placing a message on my Trees of Love dove and perhaps placing it on the olive tree where I had planted Dad’s sunflower marker earlier this year. Although we will not all be together in December for our annual Trees of Love remembrance services, we can share our love and some special thoughts of those we have lost when we watch the special film the Pilgrims team are putting together, which I am privileged to feature in.
“Although as High Sheriff of Kent this year has been a different and challenging time, my role will still allow me raise awareness of end-of-life care along with many other charities to our Judges and police force and official organisations who continue to provide a large network of support across the county of Kent for those who need care and support.
Trees of Love, east Kent’s largest remembrance services, will this year be transformed into a remembrance you enjoy from the comfort and safety of home.
Instead of our usual remembrance events with carols, those taking part will be sent a beautiful dove to dedicate and hang on your Christmas tree, or in a special place at home.
Then on Saturday 5th December 2020 at 5pm we will release a Trees of Love 2020 remembrance service for you to watch on the Pilgrims Hospices YouTube channel and website.
To take part click here to complete the online donation form, or contact Supporter Relations on 01227 782062.
Pilgrims Hospices cares for more than 2,500 local people each year, free of charge, during the most challenging time in their lives. They offer care and support in people’s own homes, in the community and in their inpatient units as well as running a 24-hour advice line.
