Approximately 200 people gathered Saturday at TRU PACE in Lafayette to remember lost loved ones, many of whom received hospice care from TRU Community Care. Hoping to be an annual tradition in the community, this celebration of life is an important part of the grief process for many family members coping with a loss. To view all pictures from the event, please visit the Google Photos album or the Facebook album.

CEO of TRU Community Care, Michael McHale, welcomed guests, spoke about the importance of coming together with others experiencing grief, and shared a poem called A Symbol of Hope.

American Legion Post 111 Lafayette posted the colors and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance in honor of our veterans.

TRU Grief Counselor, Richard Mercer, shared a personal story of friendship and loss and encouraged community members to share their own stories during their journey with grief.

Janie Blakely, TRU Chaplain, facilitated a time for sharing of memories. Attendees took turns standing up and vocalizing something special about the people they lost.

The weather cleared just in time for everyone to adjourn outside and release their butterflies in the TRU Labyrinth. Representing the transition of one life form to another, the butterflies were released into the air.

Participants enjoyed music from flutist Laurie Rugenstein and snacks made by our volunteers throughout the morning. Everyone present shared in a sense of community and many expressed how meaningful the event was for them.

“The butterfly event on Saturday was beautiful. Thank you for bringing it to us. I loved watching my friend fly away from me. It was a beautiful visualization of what happened. Thanks for all you do to bring peace to people in grief.” – TRU Volunteer and “Take Flight” attendee

Thank you to everyone who took part in this special day.

To learn more about other upcoming TRU Community Care events, please visit our 2019 Events page.