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Alacare Home Health and Hospice hosted its annual dove release this past Tuesday. “It’s our memorial service,” said office manager Lisa Cortez.

“I know we’ve done it for at least 10 years that you have been here. People definitely look forward to it.”

Family members and friends gathered together to remember patients Alacare that had passed away in the past year.

It was a time of grieving filled with both laughter and tears.

Chaplain Eric Jackson said, “This is special because these are those personal moments. As the chaplain my personal moments are with the nurses in critical moments. […] we don’t get these moments to sit and visit. These events allow for that.”

Everyone shared favorite memories of loved ones before going outside for the dove release.

One woman in attendance said, “The concept of hospice and home health is the best that has happened to our country in a long time. […] to have the reassurance that you are here. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for the help you gave.”

The service moved outside as each person in attendance was given a dove to release. Jackson asked everyone to take a moment and remember the loved one and the life he or she lived.

A moment of silence was taken before an estimated 30 birds were released. Jackson closed the service by sharing, “It encourages us because we continue in the ministry and job that we do, thank you for allowing us to serve y’all, it is our privilege. Thank you for supporting us as we support you.”