The past spirits of Life Care Center of Hilo were welcomed back in traditional splendor at the nursing facility thanks to the sincere professional help of Project Dana, Honpa Hongwanji, Hawaii Island Buddhist Women’s Association and the Hilo Bon Dance Club.
The past spirits of Life Care Center of Hilo were welcomed back in traditional splendor at the nursing facility thanks to the sincere professional help of Project Dana, Honpa Hongwanji, Hawaii Island Buddhist Women’s Association and the Hilo Bon Dance Club.
Mahalo to Leonard Chow, president of the Hilo Bon Dance Club, for helping make sure the event went well. The club did an outstanding job of playing the traditional drums and flute, performing enthusiastically for the large crowd of more than 300 people. Two crowd-pleasing circles of dancers demonstrated the beautiful, old-fashioned dances. Many residents were able to join the circle in their wheelchairs during the program.
The service was eloquently provided by the Rev. Jeff Soga from Honpa Hongwanji. Residents, family members and the community listened and were quietly moved by the respectful presentation.
Thank you to Woody Kita from Project Dana and Hawaii Island Buddhist Women’s Association for their support leading up to and during the event. Thank you to Amy Nishimura and Jane Heit for leading the dancing.
Thank you to the family members of past residents who came to participate in the event. This was truly an amazing event for our staff and residents.
One could not help but feel the honor given to our treasured, deceased ancestors during this spiritually moving event. Although some of the Life Care Elders could not participate, the dancers helped our elders reminisce of days gone by. Thank you for your heart-warming community service.
Chris Ridley
Director of Social Services