Monarch Butterflies Take Flight in Lewiston to Honor Shooting Victims

Photo byRay HennessyonUnsplash

A Symbolic Tribute to Lives Lost

LEWISTON, Maine — In a poignant and heartwarming tribute, close to a thousand monarch butterflies were released on Saturday in Lewiston to honor the lives of loved ones lost, including the victims of the Lewiston mass shootings. The event, hosted by Andwell Health Partners, has been a cherished tradition for 15 years, providing families a symbolic release of grief and a celebration of their loved ones' spirits passing on.

From Small Beginnings to a Major Event

Initially a modest gathering at the Hospice House in Auburn, the butterfly release has grown significantly over the years. "So this is what came to be; a small little event at the Hospice House in Auburn," said Ken Albert, President and CEO of Andwell Health Partners. He marveled at the event's expansion, noting, "I like to wonder who's on me right now, and [it] certainly represents something to me and I know to the people who are here."

Honoring the Victims

Before the release, a solemn ceremony was held where volunteers read the names of family members and the 18 victims of the Lewiston mass shootings in October. The ceremony was a heartfelt moment of remembrance and solidarity for the community.

A Healing Experience

The event took place on the lawn of Geiger Elementary School, where families could walk among the hundreds of butterflies. For many, this experience was deeply cathartic. Brian Scharold, a volunteer who first attended the event as a mourner, shared his personal connection to the butterflies. "It warms your heart," he said. "Butterflies are a very important part of my life. One flew over my wife's casket at the cemetery and they're there when I need them."

Moving Forward with Love

Attendees like Bill Bendelak found solace in the event after losing his wife Ruth a few months ago. "She carried through life everything that people should endow with one another; love, compassion, understanding," Bendelak explained. The butterfly release provided him a way to honor Ruth's memory and begin to heal.

Supporting Hospice and Bereavement Programs

The event also served a charitable purpose, raising funds for Andwell Health Partners' hospice and bereavement programs. These programs offer crucial support to families dealing with loss, ensuring that the spirit of compassion and understanding continues throughout the community.

Attribution source: Newscentermaine.com