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Hospice's Rainbow of Ribbons Honors Loved Ones in Oxford Park
25 Aug
Summary
- Colorful ribbon display at Oxford's University Parks to support Sobel House hospice
- Over 500 ribbons dedicated this year, the most since the annual appeal started in 2021
- Ribbons honor loved ones, including a former Oxford United footballer who passed away
As of August 25th, 2025, a poignant display of colorful ribbons has been adorning Oxford's University Parks, part of an annual initiative by the Sobel House hospice. The "Rainbow of Ribbons" appeal has seen a record-breaking 500 ribbons dedicated this year, the most since the initiative began in 2021.
The ribbons serve as a touching tribute to loved ones, with individuals and families coming together to honor those who have received care from the hospice. Among the dedications is a special Oxford blue ribbon, paid tribute by a son to his father, the late Mickey Lewis, who played 350 games for the local football club Oxford United before passing away from lung cancer in 2021.
Greg, who lost his wife Penny to lung cancer, has also dedicated a ribbon in her memory. Penny received palliative care treatment at Sobel House, and Greg says the dedication evokes a "collective" feeling for all who are grateful for the hospice's support during their darkest times.
Fundraiser Kayleigh Ballard expressed that the appeal has grown each year, providing a meaningful way for the community to remember loved ones and find solace in shared experiences of grief and hope. The ribbons will remain in the parks until the end of August, after which they will be relocated to the hospice itself.
