Honoring Life, Celebrating Care: VNA’s Annual Butterfly Release Tribute

On Sunday, September 14, Lutheran SeniorLife’s Visiting Nurses Association (VNA) brought together families, caregivers, and community members at the Big Butler Fairgrounds for its annual Beyond Memories Butterfly Release. In a ceremony marked by reverence and hope, nearly 200 butterflies were released, each carrying with it the memory of a life cherished and the enduring bond of love.

The ceremony opened with the solemn voice of bagpiper Amanda McGregor, whose music welcomed attendees and set a reflective tone. Bereavement Coordinator and Hospice Social Worker Becca Rich then spoke with grace about the journey of grief and the quiet work of healing, offering both comfort and hope. Music lifted the service further—Hospice Social Worker Suzie Dalessandro, accompanied by her colleague Bob Simm on guitar, offered heartfelt renditions of Amazing Grace and In the Garden, followed by the tender melodies of violinist and custodian Phil Braho.

For families, the butterfly release is a tradition of healing and remembrance. Sue Bumbaco, attended for the eighth consecutive year in honor of her late husband, John.

“I have a very high opinion of the hospice program,” Bumbaco said. “They were wonderful to my family. We were able to keep my husband at home until he passed, and it was with their care that we were able to do that.”

Elaine Myers, 86, who served with the VNA for 20 years before retiring, released a butterfly in memory of her mother and spoke with pride about the care the VNA continues to deliver.

“I had a mother in hospice,” Myers said. “They did an excellent job. They do excellent care, and I’m very proud to say that I was employed by the Visiting Nurses.”

While the Fairgrounds hosted the larger community gathering, the spirit of remembrance extended across Lutheran SeniorLife’s continuum. At RoseCrest Assisted Living with Memory Support, St. John Community, and Passavant Community, smaller ceremonies provided residents and staff with the opportunity to honor not only loved ones who had passed away, but also the caregivers who stood by their sides.

“The beauty of these ceremonies lies in their ability to unite grief with gratitude,” said Deb Kaylor, Director of Marketing and Communications for the VNA. “They remind us that even in sorrow, there is renewal and in remembrance, there is hope.”