By Lisa Chaly

Picture this: the sun is setting beneath the blushing horizon as hundreds of illuminated lanterns delicately float upon the waters of the Wailoa River, beautifully glowing like dancing stars against the darkening sky. A myriad of people from all walks of life reverently gather together in the spirit of remembrance for loved ones who have passed, while heart-felt memories and tears of joy are shared and celebrated. To be a part of this incredibly moving moment is unforgettable, indeed.

Hospice of Hilo invites everyone in the community to join their seventh annual “Celebration of Life” on Saturday, May 14, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Wailoa State Park. This free event is for the whole family to come and enjoy a beautiful 2.25 mile walk along the pathway of the river. There will be turkey chili, veggie chili, hot dogs, and other edible delights available, along with live music and a luminary ceremony at sunset. Luminaries can be purchased in advance or at the event for $20; all proceeds go towards Hospice of Hilo’s fundraiser to help support their ongoing, community service programs. The luminaries may be personalized, as desired, and will be launched at sunset. Relax, reminisce, and enjoy dinner by the river while listening to special musical guests J.E Orozco, the Yokoyama Sisters, the Brown Ohana Trio, and Vizion 20/20. Registration is at 3 p.m. and the walk begins at 4 p.m. The walk is free, but participants are encouraged to create teams and sponsorships to help raise money for Hospice of Hilo.

Hospice of Hilo, located at 1011 Waianuenue Avenue, is an independent, Medicare Certified, community-based, non-profit organization that offers end-of-life care for individuals and their families. Their mission is simple: “To be an integral part of the community, providing compassionate, quality end-of-life care through support, counseling, and education.” Executive Director, Brenda Ho, explains, “Hospice is here to help individuals live with a life-limiting disease and to give them hope for living life to the fullest.”

In this day and age, many people tend to avoid the subject of dying, but it is of utmost importance that patients really understand their choices as they journey towards the end of their road. Equally important is that they feel supported and nurtured during this delicate transition through their final phase of life. With Hospice care, individuals are comforted with an open heart and mind to encourage the most positive, loving experience possible. Brenda Ho continues, “Part of the process is to look at what the patient’s needs are; that might be getting their symptoms under control, providing education or training about what their disease is and how it might unfold. We sincerely want people to know that we are there to support them through their journey and to do that in a very compassionate and all-inclusive way.” She enthusiastically adds, “I think hospice is an entitlement. All people deserve hospice care, regardless of age or economic class.”

Of course, Hospice of Hilo isn’t just for those who are dying; it is also for those who are surviving. There are many free bereavement programs available to anyone who is going through the grieving process, whether they are part of the Hospice program or not. There is an ongoing drop-in grief support group, every Tuesday, from 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. There is also a six-week intensive class for adults and children, separated by age groups. They even have camps a few times a year where kids can learn to express themselves freely and deal with their grief in a loving, supportive environment.

“There are survivors and they need to continue to live,” Brenda Ho shares. “It’s very painful because our life changes so much when loved ones are taken out of our day to day lives. We want opportunities and ways to stop in the chaos of the world that we live in and just remember. That is why this event is so powerful. ‘Celebration of Life’ is a very moving way of doing that. The ‘Walk to Remember’ in itself is very therapeutic and healthy; we want to take care of ourselves so we can live more fully. Also, the luminaries are a way to take that moment to remember those who have passed on before us. It is incredibly moving to see those luminaries floating down the river.”

Even before the luminaries ever set sail, though, countless hours of volunteer work are given in order to make this event possible. The Celebration of Life Committee, chaired by Allan Onishi, is a dedicated group of individuals who feel that giving generously is their second nature. With great appreciation towards his committee members, Allan says, “It’s rewarding to see how this event has grown from day one to what it is today. It’s great to see how East Hawai’i really supports worthy causes.” In a time when everyone is so busy, it is very heartwarming to see people graciously donating their time, energy, expertise, goods, and services to ensure that Hospice of Hilo continues to provide their exceptional care programs to the community. Without the help of these wonderful volunteers, this event wouldn’t be possible. Expressing her own gratitude, Celeste Keanaaina, Special Events and Education Coordinator of Hospice of Hilo, sincerely affirms, “We are very blessed to have all of their help. We are really thankful.”

Please join Hospice of Hilo’s “Celebration of Life” on May 14, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Wailoa State Park, as we come together in honor of loved ones who have passed. Let us illuminate the night with our endless love and celebrate the blessings of our own precious lives. No matter where our journey leads us, one thing is clear: We must strive to live this life to the fullest, every day, in every way.

For more information about this event, volunteer training programs, or services offered, please call (808) 969-1733 or visit www.hospiceofhilo.org.

____________________________

Hospice photos courtesy of Hospice of Hilo