Light a candle and remember

Families remember children who have died

By Steph Slater, Staff Writer

Grieving families and friends of the Gila Valley gathered Sunday to light a candle of remembrance for the light that once radiated from the faces of their children who have passed on.

“While the rest of the world is busy decorating Christmas trees or choosing the perfect gift, we are busy visiting cemeteries,” Colleen Goodwin of The Compassionate Friends of the Gila Valley said.

Although more than 100 residents attended last year’s nationwide event, 30 people came to remember their deceased children this year. The event was held at the Gherald Hoopes Activities Center of the Eastern Arizona College at 7 p.m. on Dec. 10.

“We only had about 30 in attendance this year, but they were 30 people who needed to be there,” Goodwin said.

The entire Gila Valley was invited to show support and honor a lost child by lighting a candle at the fourth event held in the community and the 10th worldwide. Candles were lit at 7 p.m in each time zone across the world.

“We know this is a tough subject at such a happy time of year, but it’s one that needs to be addressed,” Goodwin said.

Poems, songs and words were spoken in memory of the children who passed away, and light refreshments were served to the families and friends attending.