AUBURN — Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice will hold its annual Butterfly Release Celebration on Aug. 9 to allow community members to honor and remember a loved one.

At the celebration, guests will share memories, enjoy music and have light refreshments, AHCH’s Jim Bouchard said in a news release. The highlight is when the names of those being remembered are read, followed by a mass release of hundreds of butterflies.

The butterfly release has different meanings to survivors, often bringing some comfort.

Volunteer Barbara Doyle said when people lose someone they love, “we always look for a sign they’re OK, and still with us in spirit.” Some believe when a butterfly lands on a person, it’s a sign from a loved one who has died, Doyle said.

Tammy Caron said since her husband died, the butterfly release symbolizes freedom of illness and setting free one’s soul. “Every year that I attend this event, it brings healing to me and my children,” she said on AHCH’s Web page.

Anyone who wants to dedicate a butterfly needs to reserve one. The cost is $25. Butterfly reservations can be made by calling 795-9537, or online at www.ahchbutterfly.org.

Proceeds benefit patient care and family support services at Androscoggin Home Health, a nonprofit agency that provides patient care.

The celebration begins at 11 a.m. Aug. 9. Parking is available at the Rowe Ford and Lee Auto dealerships, with shuttles transporting guests to the Hospice House. Shuttles run from 10 to 10:45 a.m.

Those attending should arrive early, as seating is first come, first served.

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