2 Thursday, April 20, 2017 A ‘Walk to Remember’ Hospice of Hilo will host the 13th annual Celebration of Life on Sunday, April 30, at Wailoa State Recreation Area, starting with the 2-mile “Walk to Remember” at 5 p.m. followed by food, entertainment and launching of the luminaries on the Wailoa River at dusk. The walk is free, but donations are appreciated. Guests also can create a walking team and collect pledges. Entertainment this year will be provided by Darlene Ahuna and Doug Espejo & Boni Narito. One of the highlights of the event is the “Lights of Remembrance,” where people can purchase and personalize a luminary in memory of loved ones. More than 300 people attended last year’s Celebration of Life, and organizers say you almost have to be there to really understand what the event means to many families in our community. “There are a lot of people who have never been to one, but it’s really a wonderful outlet that helps in people’s bereavement process — whether their loved one passed a month ago or 10 years ago,” says Hospice of Hilo development and education coordinator Lisa Kwee. “It’s therapeutic to spend time together decorating your lantern and being together. It’s a magical time for families, many of whom fly in to participate in this event.” Just last year, HOH served more than 800 patients and their families, providing end-of-life and bereavement needs to the east and south areas of Hawaii County. Kwee says she has seen firsthand how HOH can affect people’s lives in a positive way after Hospice helped her deal with the death of her sister-in-law on the mainland. Most recently, Kwee got to see how HOH has impacted the keiki of Hilo as well. It started first with Kamaha‘o Halemanu, 10, and his brother, Kahiau, 8. April 20 2017 4. HVNP events Free weekend, hikes, workshops and more slated at park 6. Building bridges Parangal brings Filipino folk dances to Big Island 10. Puzzles Entertain your brain 12. Let’s Go Out Ono grinds CREDITS: Editor David Bock Writers John Burnett Katie Young Yamanaka Photography Hollyn Johnson Design Bonnie L. Rogers Email your Island Beat announcements to entertainment@hawaiitribune-herald.com See WALK Page 11 Katie Young YAMANAKA Big Island Vibe Lanterns are launched on the Wailoa River during the 2016 Celebration of Life. Photo: ANDREW HARA
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