Light Up A Life: Supporting local families navigate grief at Christmas  - Eden Valley Hospice
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Light Up A Life: Supporting local families navigate grief at Christmas 

12 November 2026

Christmas has a way of bringing memories close. As families gather, traditions return and familiar songs are heard again, thoughts can naturally turn to the people we love who have died. Remembering them, the moments shared, and the things that made them special can become an important part of the festive season. 

For Rob, those memories are of his wife, Fiona. Fiona spent her life caring for others, including four years at Jigsaw, Cumbria’s Children’s Hospice. When she was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer on her 59th birthday, she understood the comfort and support Eden Valley Hospice could provide, not only for her, but for those she loved. 

When Fiona needed end-of-life care, Rob stayed by her side at Eden Valley Hospice every night. Their family visited, giving them precious time simply to be together. 

“There was no pressure,” Rob said. “We could just come in here, and we could just be together. That’s what we wanted.” 

This Christmas, Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, Cumbria’s Children’s Hospice are inviting you to celebrate, reflect and remember your loved ones, while giving a donation to support local families when it matters most. 

No matter if you have a connection to the hospice or not, there are a few ways you can cherish your loved ones this festive season. 

You can give a donation in memory of your loved one, with your message featured on a paper bauble hung on the Christmas tree at the hospice throughout the festive season. You will also receive a handwritten card featuring the names you have remembered, a keepsake to treasure this Christmas.  

You are also welcome to join in with two remembrance events, which are open to anyone who wishes to remember their loved ones: 

  • The Hospice Light Switch-On – Sunday 29th November from 4.30pm 
  • Remembrance Service at Carlisle Cathedral – Friday 11th December from 7.30pm 

Your support provides expert medical, clinical and emotional care to those with life-limiting conditions, so their families and loved ones are able to navigate the tough times without unnecessary worry. They can simply focus on making memories and spending precious time together. 

Just £29.10 would cover one hour of specialist nursing care, giving a nurse time to listen, manage pain, ease worries and offer a hand to hold.  

To donate or make a dedication, click here, call 01228 810801, or write to Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, Durdar Road, Carlisle, CA2 4SD. 

Remember someone you love this Christmas and help give another local family the precious gift of time. 

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