Karen Ann Quinlan butterfly release events honor lives and memories

REGION — Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice will host its 17th annual Butterfly Release Celebration with three events in Sussex and Warren counties, New Jersey, and Pike County, Pennsylvania, on the weekend of June 10 and 11.
“This beautiful event honors the life of family and friends who are still with us and celebrates the memory of those loved ones we have lost,” said Cecelia Clayton, executive director of of the nonprofit organization.
Participation begins with the purchase of a butterfly for $20 in the name of a loved one. Included in the purchase is a commemorative butterfly lapel pin, which will be sent along with a personalized acknowledgement card to the designated recipient.
“The butterfly pin was designed specifically for this Butterfly Release Celebration,” said Pam Milone, event committee member and office manager for Smith-McCracken and Wood Funeral Homes. “We have introduced a new color pin each year. Not only have these pins proven to be a thoughtful reminder of those we care for, but a keepsake from the event.”
Monarch sponsors donating $100 receive a butterfly suncatcher.
Participants are encouraged to visit the website to register and purchase a butterfly in advance. Once registered, a butterfly pin and acknowledgment card will be mailed to designated recipients, and the celebrated name will be printed in the event program. Butterfly celebration pins and name recognition can also be purchased the day of the event before the ceremony begins.
Each celebration integrates live music with the reading of each name being celebrated and concludes with the release of dozens of Monarch butterflies.
Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, celebrating its 37th year of providing hospice care to patients and their families, is pleased to welcome the community to the Warren County Butterfly Release Celebration hosted at the Karen Nash Memorial Butterfly Garden on the grounds of Memorial Elementary School in Washington, N.J., at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 10.
Also, hospice supporters and area residents are welcomed to gather at the gazebo in Memorial Park in Milford for the Pike County Butterfly Release Celebration hosted at 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 10.
Sunday’s Butterfly Release Celebration will be hosted at the gazebo on the college green of the Sussex County Community College on Sunday, June 11, beginning at 2 p.m. The celebrations are hosted rain or shine; in the event of inclement weather, the butterflies will be released when conditions are suitable.
For additional information about the Butterfly Release Celebration or to celebrate the name of a loved one, visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org, or call 973-383-0115 or 800-882-1117.