North Devon Hospice is inviting people to remember loved ones with a flower and a message, through the deeply moving Floating Bye event.
Floating Bye is a way to remember someone special, by making a dedication to someone who’s no longer with us. Your message will be handwritten and attached to a flower, which is then placed on a beautiful bamboo raft and towed out to sea. It’s open to everyone, not just those who’ve been supported by North Devon Hospice. The event takes place on Instow beach, from 4pm on Sunday 26th July, but it doesn’t matter whether you’re able to be there in person or not. Your dedication can be made online now, and will be placed on the raft for you.
Grief can be isolating, but Floating Bye reminds us that we all have someone we miss, bringing comfort as we remember special people together.
Matt Watson, Donor Development Fundraiser at North Devon Hospice, says: "Floating Bye is a chance to remember someone you miss in the most beautiful way. Importantly, it's open to anyone who has lost someone, not just those with a connection to North Devon Hospice. Please make your dedication in advance and leave the message you'd like attached to the raft. Then, for those who are able to join us on the evening, you can simply come and be present in the moment, knowing your flower and message has been carefully placed on the raft for you."
North Devon Hospice cares for individuals and families facing the impact of life-limiting illnesses. Expert teams provide support at home and at the hospice, offering everything from pain management to emotional and spiritual support during the most challenging times. Every donation made at Floating Bye will help local people get the care they need when it matters most.
Naomi Desmond has attended Floating Bye every year since losing her father three years ago. She says: "Attending this event means everything to me. Coming together with others who understand grief, surrounded by flowers - which my dad adored - is a truly special way to keep his memory alive. What North Devon Hospice have created with Floating Bye is so important. It reminds us all that we are never alone in our grief."
To take part, please make your dedication online in advance by visiting floatingbye.co.uk. Your message and flower will be lovingly displayed on the raft for you, before it is gently towed out to sea.
For those able to also attend in person, Floating Bye takes place on Saturday 26th July, from 4pm at Instow Beach, with the raft due to float at approximately 5pm. The event is free to attend, with any donations to North Devon Hospice greatly appreciated.
