Hospice of Hilo will host Paws for Celebration, a special event honoring pets who died and made a difference in the lives of area residents, from 4-5:30 p.m. Saturday, May 17.
Hospice of Hilo will host Paws for Celebration, a special event honoring pets who died and made a difference in the lives of area residents, from 4-5:30 p.m. Saturday, May 17.
The event is free and open to the entire community, and will be at the Hospice of Hilo Community Building, 1011 Waianuenue Ave., Hilo.
The celebration is being brought together by Hospice of Hilo Bereavement Counselor Anjali Kala and spearheaded by Masters in Counseling intern Eve D’Vincent.
“Eve has been instrumental in putting together Paws for Celebration, to celebrate the lives of pets we have loved and lost,” Kala said.
D’Vincent has an extensive background in animal research and for the past school year has been involved in Hospice of Hilo’s Bereavement Program.
“In group sessions, many have spoken about losing a beloved pet, and how devastating that is, but it often does not get much recognition as a major loss in their lives.
“This inspired Eve to put together the event,” Kala said.
Participants are encouraged to bring photos, a memento or stories of their animal companion.
To reserve a place at the Paws for Celebration event, or find more information about other bereavement services offered free of charge by Hospice of Hilo, contact Kala at 969-1733.