By Bill Wertman, CEO, Big Bend Hospice
For many families, the holidays carry mixed emotions.
There’s joy in gathering, sharing meals, and carrying on traditions. But for those who have lost someone close, there’s often a quiet heaviness too. This time of year has a way of revealing what’s missing: the seat at the table left empty, the recipe no one makes anymore, the holiday routine that doesn’t feel the same.
At Big Bend Hospice, we understand how difficult this season can be. That’s why our care doesn’t stop when hospice services end. We walk alongside families long after a loss, offering support when grief tends to resurface in unexpected ways.
One of the ways we do that is through our annual Tree of Remembrance. You’ll find these trees at nearly 20 locations across the Big Bend, each one decorated with ornaments placed by families in honor of their loved ones. To some, it may seem like a small gesture. But to the families who return year after year, it becomes a tradition that helps keep memories close and connections strong.
We’re also proud to offer Hope for the Holidays and Service of Remembrance gatherings across several of our counties. These peaceful, community-centered events are designed to give families a space to come together, reflect on the lives of those they’ve lost, and feel supported by others who understand. In the stillness of candlelight and music, many find a moment of calm during what can otherwise feel like an overwhelming time.
At Big Bend Hospice, our work goes beyond the final days of patient care. We are here to support the emotional and spiritual well-being of the families we serve for as long as they need us. The holidays may bring sorrow, but they also give us opportunities to honor the past, embrace comfort, and create space for healing.
If you’re missing someone this season, please know you are not alone.
Because care doesn’t end with goodbye.