Community Corner
Hospice & Palliative Care of Westchester Celebrates Life with Fourth Annual Butterfly Release
Community members and families of patients join local nonprofit in remembering loved ones
Hospice & Palliative Care of Westchester (HPCW) hosted its fourth annual Celebration of Life Memorial Butterfly Release at the Wainwright House in Rye, NY on June 1, 2014. Hundreds of family, friends, and community members gathered for two remembrance ceremonies, each concluding with the release of Monarch butterflies to honor loved ones.
HPCW Executive Director Mary K. Spengler MS and Wainwright House Executive Director Peggy Hill welcomed guests, and HPCW staff and volunteers offered readings relating to loss and bereavement. Harpist Clare Rosenfield, Music Practitioner David Devine and the Threshold Choir of Westchester provided musical interludes, as well. Throughout the event, children and families were invited to participate in crafts relating to the Monarch butterfly, as well as walk the peaceful labyrinth on the grounds.
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Bereavement Coordinators read the names of those being remembered at both ceremonies. Guests were then invited onto the lawn for the coordinated release of butterflies. Family and friends marveled as the beautiful creatures took flight, representing the memory of loved ones.
“Hospice is pleased to host this annual event for families to remember and celebrate their loved ones,” Spengler said.
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“The butterfly release enhances ongoing family ties and warm memories for our Hospice families and members of the community,” said Bruce Page, Bereavement Coordinator, HCPW
About Hospice & Palliative Care of Westchester:
Hospice & Palliative Care of Westchester is a private, not-for-profit healthcare agency that provides skilled, compassionate and comprehensive end-of-life care to patients with any life-limiting illness and gives support to their families and loved ones. Hospice & Palliative Care of Westchester is located at 311 North Street, Suite 204, White Plains, NY. For additional information, visit www.hospiceofwestchester.com or call 914.682.1484.
