St Margaret's Hospice Care is inviting people to participate in their Light up a Life event this winter.

Open to the entire Somerset community, Light up a Life allows people to remember those they've lost while raising much-needed funds to support free hospice care across the county.

St Margaret's aims to raise £50,000 this year to continue providing compassionate care for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their loved ones.

George Cockburn, supporter care manager at St Margaret's, said: "You can celebrate and remember the lives of your loved ones this Christmas by dedicating a star in their memory."

By making a donation, participants will not only commemorate the memories of those they’ve lost but also help the hospice provide vital care for people facing life-limiting illnesses, at home, in the community, and in the hospice’s in-patient unit.

Ian and Yvonne (Image: St Margaret's Hospice Care) Mr Cockburn added: "The care and support St Margaret’s provides wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our community.

"Light up a Life is a wonderful opportunity for everyone, not just those whose loved ones were cared for by us, to celebrate the people we miss most.

"Every donation makes a big difference in helping us continue to provide hospice care across Somerset."

The Light up a Life appeal is filled with stories of families who’ve experienced the compassionate care St Margaret’s provides first-hand.

One such story is Ian’s, a man whose final months were made better by the hospice's support.

He received care from St Margaret’s community nurses and, when his condition worsened, moved to the in-patient unit, where he found not only medical care but peace and dignity in his final days.

The hospice staff ensured Ian remained pain-free, allowing his family to focus on making the most of their time together.

Ian surrounded by his family at the Taunton hospice (Image: St Margaret's Hospice Care) Yvonne, Ian’s wife, recalls the moments they were able to share, even as the end approached: "St Margaret’s took away the fear and the pain.

"We had time—time to sit, to talk, to hold hands.

"There was no rush, just moments we’ll treasure forever.

"I can’t tell you how much that meant to us."

This year will be different, but Ian’s memory will still be at the heart of their Christmas.

Yvonne during the interview (Image: St Margaret's Hospice Care) Yvonne said: "We even have several baubles with Ian’s face on them.

"Some aren’t very flattering, but it’s comforting to know he’ll still be there with us, watching over as we do what we’ve always done—rip open presents and laugh, with Ian’s face all over the tree."

St Margaret’s Hospice Care helps families create cherished moments, ensuring that patients live as well as possible for as long as possible.

Light up a Life offers a way to remember those who are no longer with us, while supporting the care of others who are still on their journey.

To join the appeal, visit the St Margaret's Hospice Care website.