Grace, only 7 years old, was facing a heartbreaking situation.
Her father, John, was nearing end-of-life in palliative care with us at Holmberg House, Abbotsford Hospice & Grief Support Society. You could imagine how hard it was for the family to watch his health and energy drain day after day.
As hospice staff cared for John, Sarah (his wife), and their daughter Grace, they found out that the family had a cherished tradition of watching movies together. This was more than just a pastime for them: John had worked in the movie industry for years and shared a deep love of films with his family, creating a special bond that helped them connect in difficult times.
Seeing an opportunity to create a memory for this family, our staff recreated this special
experience for them in a way that Grace and Sarah would never forget.
We invited Grace's closest friends and family to join us right here at Holmberg House hospice where John could join them for another special family movie night. We transformed one of our large common rooms into a deluxe cozy movie theatre, complete with bean bag chairs, blankets, Grace’s favourite film, fresh movie-theatre popcorn, and all the comforts that made their time together as memorable as possible.
Despite their heartbreaking situation, Grace's family and friends found connection and solace in the simple joy of having a special movie night together.
Our Executive Director Andrea Critchley was deeply touched by a hand-written card that Sarah and Grace sent to AHGSS staff after John’s passing.
The family wrote:
“Many thanks to ALL of you AMAZING people at Hospice. You have overextended yourself to make John’s stay as comfortable as could be for the situation. It is a beautiful place you have created where friends and family can be with loved ones.”
AHGSS is grateful to be able to create precious memories for individuals and families during difficult times. Thank you to Flokstra family for sharing this special evening with us, and for allowing us to share your story this Christmas.
Photo above of Flokstra family: John, Sarah, and Grace
If you would like to help create more memories for families like Grace’s, please consider donating to our 2024 Christmas campaign. Every dollar you give provides comfort, creates lasting memories, and ensures that no family in our community has to face their journey alone.
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