Remembering loved ones at the CHPC Butterfly Release.

LAKEWOOD — Chautauqua Hospice and Palliative Care (CHPC) proudly presents its annual Service of Remembrance and Memorial Butterfly Release on Saturday, June 7. This meaningful hybrid event invites community members to honor loved ones with a butterfly release, either virtually or in person at our Lakewood office.

“In many cultures, butterflies symbolize the remarkable transformation between worlds,” explains Jamie Probst, Director of Family Support Services at CHPC. “As butterflies emerge from their chrysalis, they signify both an end and a beginning–a profound representation of the journey of grief. It is through this journey that we discover new ways to cherish and preserve the bonds we shared.”

See BUTTERFLY, Page D6

This year’s event will begin with a brief memorial program livestreamed on our Facebook page at 1 p.m.at CHPC’s Lakewood Office, followed by the butterfly release. For those who are unable to attend in person, the recorded video will remain available on both the CHPC website and Facebook page.

Guests are welcome to pick up their butterflies on the morning of the event, Saturday, June 7, from 10 a.m. to noon, at either of the following locations: CHPC Lakewood Office – 20 W Fairmount Avenue, Lakewood; WCA Home – 134 Temple St., Fredonia.

If you are unable to attend the release, CHPC’s compassionate staff will lovingly release your butterfly on your behalf following the livestreamed service. Each butterfly may be purchased in memory of one or more loved ones, and names will be included in a memorial program available online.

“At CHPC, we consider it a privilege to assist caregivers during such a sensitive time,” affirms Mike Testa, CEO of CHPC. “Through the Service of Remembrance and Butterfly Release, we continue to provide unwavering support while fostering deeper connections with the community we serve.”

Orders for butterflies and memorial program listings will be accepted through Wednesday, June 4. A single butterfly can be dedicated to multiple individuals. Names may also be submitted for the memorial listing without purchasing a butterfly. To participate or place an order, please visit https://chpc.care/butterfly.

For more information, contact CHPC at (716) 338-0033 or visit our website.