Media

The festive season is a time for family, friends and togetherness. Yet, for many people it is also a reminder that there is someone missing from the dinner table. 

Albury Wodonga Health is proud to offer a meaningful opportunity for the community to reflect and honour the memories of loved one who have passed with the launch of its Community Christmas Tree of Remembrance.  

All community members are invited to visit the tree, located in the foyer of Wodonga Hospital, to acknowledge the loss of a family member or friend as an important step in managing bereavement. 

AWH Director Community Care Tanya Dawe is inviting visitors to the Wodonga hospital to write a message in honour of their loved one and attach it to the tree. 

‘The festive season can be a triggering time for anyone who has lost a loved one,’ she said. 

‘At a time when other people are welcoming family and friends into their homes, many people are feeling an acute sense of loss. 

‘The Community Christmas Tree of Remembrance is an opportunity to acknowledge those feelings of grief and honour the memory of a loved one,’ she said. 

AWH Community Palliative Care Occupational Therapist Marissa Clarkson said this time of year could leave people feeling alone and isolated in their grief. 

‘Some people may feel they don’t want to spend time with others, are not able to engage in past traditions or want to avoid making others feel uncomfortable around them,’ Marissa said. 

‘The Christmas Tree of Remembrance is an opportunity to acknowledge and honour those feelings of grief. This activity allows people to include their loved in the spirit of Christmas. 

‘Visitors to the tree can write the name of their loved one on a card and place it on the tree alongside cards from fellow community members who understand how they may be feeling,’ she said. 

AWH Volunteer Coordinator Shelly Riddell said cards and pens would be available in the hospital foyer for participants to write their messages and attach them to the tree. 

‘Visitors to the tree will also be able to access materials about managing their grief during the festive season as well as information on how to help someone who is grieving at this time of year,’ Shelly said. 

The Wodonga Community Palliative Care team, together with the volunteers, are pleased to offer this opportunity for our community to acknowledge and remember a loved one that has died. 

After a brief hiatus, the Community Christmas Tree of Remembrance is returning to the Wodonga hospital, with plans to expand the project to Albury hospital and other sites next year.