Teens Unite are incredibly proud to be supported this year by Austin’s Charitable Fund. It’s very humbling to know that at a time of great personal sadness, families choose to help others, and through their generosity, with the Charitable Fund, raise money for many incredible causes.
We joined Austins’ team and some families who had lost loved ones and received the incredible support of Austins' at that time, for a beautiful memorial service in the stunning grounds of Harwood Park last Saturday.
It was a lovely afternoon and we were grateful to join the families as they spent time remembering their loves ones; taking the time to think about their interests and passions and all of the things that made them who they were; taking time to connect with the people who were really important in their lives; and being part of that very special community, united in their own common experience.
The Service was an opportunity for quiet reflection, and the families’ lit candles as we listened to “How Long Will I Love You?” by Ellie Goulding, the lyrics so fitting.
We heard the poem All is Well, an uplifting and comforting poem which talks of love living on after death. The service ended with Eva Cassidy’s version of Fields of Gold, a beautiful song about courtship, love, marriage and lastly death. The two people in the song have a relationship so strong that even the sky is jealous. It was a perfect end to the service.
We then joined the families for afternoon tea on the lawn, before a dove release, the significance of letting go beautifully and peacefully honoured the memory of those we had gathered to remember.
To Austins, and the families, we thank you so much for allowing us to be a part of this very special service, and we thank you for your support helping us to be there for more young people overcoming the challenges that cancer brings.
