Candlelight Vigil Helps Group Find Comfort

By NICK YAMASHITA

The Progress

A small group of people seeking comfort during the holidays met together at Brooke’s Good Deeds in Logandale to remember lost ones and support one another on Saturday night, Dec. 16.
“We want people to know they are not alone,” Shanna McPheters said during an interview.

She went over the goals of the community nonprofit and the resources available, including counseling services.

A group of eight adults and one youth lit candles, and each took turns talking about the special people in their lives who had died in the past.

Hosted by Gary and Shanna McPheters, the 2nd annual vigil started at 5 p.m. at the non-profit organization located at 3475 N. Moapa Valley Boulevard.

The group gathered in a circle while Gary went first, recognizing his lit candle for his daughter for whom their business was named. One by one, they each took turns, citing names of spouses, grandparents, siblings, parents, and even close friends. Loved ones who left an imprint on each of their lives were talked about with endearment and love.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the holidays saw 64% of those living with mental illness reported their conditions worsened during the holidays.

The publication Psychology Today reported that people being unhappy during the holidays was on the rise, with 35% not looking forward to the Christmas season due to feelings of grief or loss.
“We just let people talk,” McPheters said. “Get it out.”

The first holiday candlelight vigil brought about a dozen last year.
Even with a smaller group, McPheters said it was a success.

The ceremony was less than a half-hour, but everyone came away appearing to be satisfied and comforted.

Brooke’s Good Deeds is prepping up for Christmas Day, as they were heavily distributing meat and vegetables to clear up fridge space. Lin’s Market in Overton donated 135 turkeys on Monday.

She said the facility will be open on Wednesday and Friday this week, to hand out the turkeys and make sure those who need it will have a holiday dinner.

For those who need help or would like to volunteer to help, including grief support services, contact Brooke’s Good Deeds by calling (702) 283-6118 or visit the location during business hours.