The tree that tells a thousand tales

St. Vital

Palliative Manitoba’s memory tree is open for the holidays.

The massive tree, which displays messages of loss and bereavement for loved ones, was officially launched for the season on Nov. 27 at St. Vital Centre (1225 St. Mary’s Rd.), near the site of the former Hudson’s Bay Company store. The event included performances by the Collège Jeanne-Sauvé Choir, as well as some inspiring stories.

The idea of the memory tree campaign, which is in its 38th year, is to provide comfort and compassion for visitors, as grief and feelings of loss can be magnified during the holiday season. Visitors write message on cards and attach them to the tree, taking time to reflect on the memory of a lost loved one.

The cards are free, but donations are more than welcome and gratefully received. The memory tree is staffed by volunteers who have training in compassionate aid and grief support, and organizers want to help people acknowledge that grief can be a normal part of the holiday season.

Lindsay Felstead, Palliative Manitoba’s development co-ordinator and a key organizer of the Memory Tree initiative, said 1,313 cards were attached to the tree last year, including 73 special cards coloured-in by kids.

The non-profit gauged there were more than 6,500 visitors last year, and 60 volunteers clocked 503 hours, raising approximately $12,300.

“The tree provides space from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season for someone that has experienced the death of someone close to them, someone that has experienced loss,” Felstead said.

“People can come and sit and have an empathetic ear and can write a card, along with many others … so they know they’re not alone,” Felstead noted. “Grief on a regular day can be bad, can be isolating … but to go to the mall and see people wrapped up in the holiday season, people can be excused for thinking, ‘Oh my god, am I the only one feeling this?’”

The tree will be open until noon on Dec. 23. Visit palliativemanitoba.ca for more information.