"That’s the power of the butterfly release. It’s not just a ceremony. It’s a moment of connection, healing, and hope." - Rachel Carta, Hospice RN

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The Healing Power of the Butterfly Release

When Grief Feels Heavy, Let the Butterflies Carry You

There’s something sacred about holding a live butterfly in your hands.
It’s so fragile, so light, and yet full of life and purpose.

The first time I attended our hospice’s annual butterfly release, I had no idea what to expect. I was there because it was “something we do,” a tradition. Fast forward a few years and my dad had just passed away, and I found myself watching that tiny butterfly like a lifeline.

As I opened my hands and watched it rise into the September sky, I felt a rush of emotions: grief, yes, but also peace. I thought about the legacy my dad left—the lessons he taught me, the joy he brought to everyone who knew him, and how he still lives on through me and my siblings.

That’s the power of the butterfly release. It’s not just a ceremony. It’s a moment of connection, healing, and hope.

Why the Butterfly Release Matters

Our spiritual caregiver, Carrie Stine, has been with our hospice for 14 years and has witnessed many of these moments.

“Butterflies leave a legacy,” she told me during our recent Hospice Redefined podcast. “They migrate thousands of miles and return year after year. It’s a reminder that our loved ones are still with us, their love and legacy continuing on.”

When you attend the butterfly release, you’re not just remembering the person you lost—you’re creating a new memory tied to their life. You’re surrounded by others who understand the weight of grief, but also the beauty that can still be found in it.

You’re reminded you’re not alone.

What You Can Expect

On Saturday, September 14th, we’ll gather together at The Grove at United Lutheran Church in Sunbury, PA for a heartfelt program of music, remembrance, and reflection.

You’ll hear stories. You’ll smile. You might cry.

And then, together, we’ll release hundreds of butterflies into the open sky.

Children’s laughter, quiet tears, the flutter of wings—it’s a moment that stays with you long after you leave

More Than a Ceremony

When you purchase a butterfly, you’re doing something meaningful twice:

1. You’re honoring your loved one’s life in a tangible, beautiful way.

2. You’re supporting The Hospice Promise Foundation, which provides direct assistance to hospice patients and families in financial hardship.

100% of the proceeds go toward essentials like:

• Rent and utilities

• Emergency home repairs

• Food and personal care items

• Funeral and burial expenses

• Even wish fulfillment for those in their final days

This foundation has helped countless families in crisis, and your butterfly purchase keeps that work going.

Butterflies are $15 each or 2 for $25.

📞 To reserve your butterflies, call 570-473-6317.

Event Details

📅 Date: Saturday, September 14th, 2025
🕓 Time: 2:00 PM (arrive early to connect and find a seat)
📍 Location: The Grove at United Lutheran Church, corner of Seven Points Road & Route 890, Sunbury, PA

Butterfly purchase deadline: Friday, August 8th.

You’re Invited

If you’ve ever lost someone you love, I invite you to join us. Bring your family. Bring your kids. Bring your grief, your memories, your laughter, and your tears.

Let this be a day you can hold close—a day to remember, to celebrate, and to feel the presence of your loved one’s legacy around you.

And when the butterflies take flight, maybe you’ll feel a little lighter too.

📩 Questions? Email us at [email protected].

P.S. Even if you can’t attend, you can still purchase a butterfly in honor of your loved one or make a direct donation to The Hospice Promise Foundation by calling 570-473-6317.

💛 Want More Support?

Visit HospiceRedefined.com to grab your free Caregiver Self-Care Checklist—a PDF you can print and put on your fridge to remind you of the small things that make a big difference.

🎧 Listen to this episode on your favorite podcast platform:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

And if you found this episode helpful, please forward it to someone who needs it. Or better yet, grab your phone, press play, and sit with them while they listen.

You’re not alone. We’re so proud of you for showing up.

Until next time,
Rachel Carta, RN
Host of Hospice Redefined

This episode is brought to you by Geisinger Hospice—Compassionate care when it matters most.

Written and produced by Rachel Carta, RN, Functional Nutrition Counselor & Life Coach. This episode features an interview with Carrie Stine, Spiritual Caregiver for Geisinger Hospice.