The family of the late Elaine Monaghan of Newry are helping shine a light on hospice care this Christmas as they join Evora Hospice’s Light Up a Life ceremony to remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed away.
Proudly supported by Gordons Chemists and Killowen Contracts, the Light Up a Life event has become one of the most cherished gatherings of the year in the community. On Thursday, December 11 in Newry, families, friends and supporters will come together to honour and remember their loved ones in a meaningful way by illuminating a Christmas tree with each light a poignant reminder of a life cherished.
Elaine was from a big family. One of seven children, she was the apple of her daddy’s eye. A strong and determined woman, Elaine was a single mum of one to daughter Emma and both had their own ties to the hospice.
“I was born in the building that is now the hospice. Mum was already working there as a nursing auxiliary and long-serving member of the hospice team when I was born. I always felt like I had been born into the hospice family,” Emma said.
Elaine spent almost all her working life in the Hospice as a nursing auxiliary. She was so good at her job, and so proud to tell everyone where she worked.
In 2016, Elaine was diagnosed with breast cancer. After treatment and surgery, she returned to work, saying it gave her even more empathy for patients and families.
Elaine’s cancer returned twice, and each time she fought through, supported by her amazing colleagues and family. Even after further surgery and treatment, Elaine was determined to beat her illness and return to the job she loved.
“Mum always thought of herself as a carer rather than a patient, and accepting help was never easy for her,” Emma said
In Autumn of 2023 Elaine’s condition worsened, which led to her decision to retire from the Hospice.
Her colleagues held a special tea party to mark her retirement. It was an emotional day, filled with love and memories.
A matter of weeks after her 60 th birthday in March of 2024 the family was faced with the heartbreaking reality of a palliative diagnosis.
Hospice care was recommended for Elaine in September 2024, having spent most of her life working at the hospice, she was initially reluctant to take that step. The staff were more than colleagues to her; they were long-time friends and entering the place she knew so well as a patient was an emotional and difficult decision.
“I thought I understood what hospice care was. I’d grown up surrounded by it. But being on the other side, I realised I had no idea. We were wrapped in love and kindness. I became a daughter again. I wasn’t the carer, the organiser, the go-between. I had the time and space to just sit with mum, to talk. I could leave knowing she was safe, lovingly cared for by her work family.”
Just over a year ago, on November 14, 2024, Elaine passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, colleagues and dear friends at Evora Hospice.
As Elaine departed the hospice where she had spent her life as a devoted carer for the last time on her final journey home, her long-time friends and colleagues formed a guard of honour.
“It was a deeply moving gesture of respect and love that I will never forget.”
To remember Elaine, the family is dedicating a light to her as part of the Evora Hospice Light Up A Life appeal.
“During her working life, this campaign was very close to her heart. Christmas won’t be the same without her, but visiting the tree, bringing the children and keeping the hospice close in our hearts helps us feel connected.”
Evora Hospice’s Light Up a Life ceremony offers families the opportunity to remember loved ones in a comforting and reflective environment. For those unable to attend in person, lights can also be dedicated on the Hospice’s virtual Christmas tree.
Light Up a Life Ceremony:
• St. John’s House, Newry – Thursday 11th December 7.30pm
To dedicate a light or for more information, visit www.evorahospice.org or call 028 3026 7711. For more information and to dedicate a light, visit www.evorahospice.org or call 028 3026 7711.
