KEMP Hospice raises thousands at butterfly release event

KEMP Hospice held the event at Bodenham Arboretum on Saturday, September 9 and managed to raise more than £7,500.

The charity, which has been providing end-of-life care to people in Wyre Forest for over 50 years, invited guests into the grounds of the arboretum to release a butterfly in memory of their loved ones with supporters from across the region and beyond taking part.  

Head of fundraising and communications at KEMP Hospice Jayne Sargeant said: “This is the second year we’ve held the Butterfly Release, and once again we all found it incredibly moving to witness the love and emotion surrounding each butterfly which had been dedicated in memory of a loved one.

“We have been overwhelmed by the kindness of everyone who has donated and made a dedication for their butterfly. As a hospice charity, we never charge for our care, so the amount raised will help those experiencing life-limiting illness and bereavement across the Wyre Forest who need our services and support.”  

One of the butterflies released at the ceremony (Image: Colin Hill)

During the event, members of the Rock Choir were on hand to sing gentle songs for people to listen to and think about their loved ones.

The money raised will go towards the hospice services which costs almost £1.5 million every year.

Ms Sargeant said: “We are very aware of the emotion and poignancy surrounding the event, and we feel honoured to be able to give people an opportunity to gather together and share the moment with loved ones and others who may be grieving at this time.” 

The event attracted supporters from across the region (Image: Colin Hill)

The event was sponsored by The Wharf Care Home in Stourport and supported by Bodenham Arboretum, visual marketing company DT Studios and local photographer Colin Hill.

A selection of photos will be available on the KEMP Hospice website.