A 10ft long wall of daffodils has been unveiled to help people remember those who have died. Charity Marie Curie is encouraging members of the public to write messages on it to mark the memory of loved ones after their deaths.
A wall on the South Bank in central London is one of hundreds set up across the UK for the third National Day of Reflection on Thursday (March 23). It is decorated with hundreds of real flowers and includes daffodil-shaped spaces on the front and back for people to share their stories of grief and loss.
The charity says the aim is for people to come together and remember those who have died, support those who are grieving, and connect with each other. Ballroom dancers Curtis and AJ Pritchard were among the first to visit and write on the wall alongside Marie Curie nurse Beth Namara and podcaster Dan Hudson.
The London Wall of Reflection is up from 8am on 23 March, allowing people to reflect on any death of a loved one, from any cause and at any time. For many it may be the only acknowledgment of their grief and gives everyone permission to take time to reflect and support one another.
Matthew Reed, Chief Executive at Marie Curie, said: “The National Day of Reflection gives the nation the opportunity to unite in grief and share their experiences with others who have suffered similar losses. This year, we chose to set up the London Wall of Reflection as a public reminder of the importance of remembrance and coming together.”
Marie Curie launched the National Day of Reflection in 2021 as a day to remember those who died during the pandemic, and support anyone whose grief was affected by lockdown. Over 850 organisations took part in 2022, with a number of public figures supporting including King Charles.
A of free online events are being also held throughout the day on March 23, giving people more ways to connect with others. They include a workshop on the healing power of nature in grief hosted by Ray Mears, Raynor Winn, and Cat White.
The London Wall of Reflection will be open from 8am-7pm on March 23. To find out about the day of reflection and other walls, visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/dayofreflection
