As people approach the end of life, many begin to reflect on the moments, relationships, and traditions that have shaped who they are. At Carefor Hospice Cornwall, legacy building activities help patients reserve those meaningful connections, creating lasting gifts for the people they love.

Carefor’s new Supportive Recreation Worker, Lilly Groulx finds new and creative ways to help clients build bridges between the life they’ve led and the life they’re leaving behind.

Lilly reflects on some of the experiences she’s had with clients: For one client, family was at the heart of her legacy. After her daughter recently relocated overseas, she felt a deep desire to see where this new chapter of her life would unfold. While travel was no longer possible, a virtual reality experience opened a window into that world.

Through immersive technology, the patient explored the neighbourhood her daughter now called home and even viewed her new house. Although separated by distance, the experience brought a sense of loseness and comfort, allowing her to get a sense of her daughter’s life after she was gone.

Lilly recalls another client who found purpose in preserving a tradition that had defined her role within the family for decades: cooking. For years, she had shown love through preparing meals and gathering loved ones around the table.

As her illness progressed, she worried about leaving behind those cherished family recipes and memories. Lilly worked with her to transform her family’s favourite recipes into a keepsake filled with photographs, meaningful poems and hymns, as well as a personal message for her children. What started as recipes became something much deeper, a tangible expression of love, care, and family identity.

These stories reflect the power of Legacy Building. Whether through technology, storytelling, art, or treasured family traditions, clients are given opportunities to share what matters most. With guidance and support from hospice staff, including Lilly Groulx, these activities help individuals create meaningful reminders of their lives, offering comfort, connection, and enduring memories for the loved ones they leave behind.

Thank you so much for helping bring peace and closure to the lives of people in our community.