The wet weather didn’t dampen the spirits of those attending City Hospice’s Celebration of Life event as the community united for the special, free event on Thursday 8 August at Cardiff Castle.
Hundreds of people came together to reflect, remember and share their memories of cherished family members, friends, colleagues and other loved ones at the event which is part of the charity’s Forever Flowers campaign.
This year’s choice of flower was a ‘Remember Me Rose’ which symbolises love, affection and respect, with the colour also paying tribute to the charity’s ruby anniversary which is being celebrated this year. Over 1000 roses featured in the impactful display which ran from 3 to 11 August.
Hosted by the charity’s Chief Executive Liz Booyse, the evening included performances by Cardiff-based harpist Sam Hickman and a super choir, formed of members of Rock Choir ensembles from across south Wales.
Moving and heartfelt poems were read by members of the City Hospice team, Janey Howell, the High Sheriff of South Glamorgan who has chosen the hospice as her charity of the year, and the Olsen family including Amy, Max, Theo and Scott who dedicated their Remember Me Rose to husband, dad and brother Kris.
Liz Booyse, Chief Executive of City Hospice, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone, our performers and the local community, who braved the rain to be a part of our Celebration of Life at Cardiff Castle. Despite the weather, it was an incredibly special evening.
“The beautiful display of Remember Me Roses was the perfect setting for this collective celebration and remembrance of those we love.”
Forever Flowers supports the work of City Hospice, the only provider of home-based specialist palliative care in the capital. In addition to providing care and services including welfare advice and complementary therapies to patients with terminal or life limiting illnesses, the charity offers counselling and support services for their patients’ families.
