More than 380 butterflies were released in honor of loved ones at the Ohio’s Hospice of Central Ohio Celebrating Life’s Stories^® Butterfly Release after a brief program and special music on July 29 at the Davis-Shai House in Heath, Ohio. 

This year’s Butterfly Release raised $18,800 to support patient care and services at the not-for-profit organization. More than 270 members of the community gathered for an afternoon to remember and honor special people who have touched their lives. For those who were not able to attend, butterflies were released on their behalf.  

“We are thankful to our community for their ongoing support of our mission,” said Stacy Geller, vice president of Philanthropic Development at Ohio’s Hospice of Central Ohio. “We’re honored that so many people from the community joined us for this special remembrance to honor loved ones who have touched us in so many ways.” 

Ohio’s Hospice of Central Ohio is grateful to its Monarch Sponsors — The Granville Investment Group, Licking Memorial Health Systems, and New River Electrical Corporation — and its Buckeye Sponsors —Matesich Family and Newark Moose Lodge #499.   

Ohio’s Hospice of Central Ohio, an affiliate of Ohio’s Hospice, has provided a holistic, community-based approach to hospice care since 1982. With locations in Newark, Columbus, Lancaster and Zanesville, the not-for-profit organization serves 13 counties in central Ohio and is dedicated to supporting the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of patients and families facing life-limiting illnesses. In addition, two inpatient care centers at Licking Memorial Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center are available for symptom management.