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A mother grieving the loss of her daughter has faced hurtful remarks while putting up her Christmas light display, with some accusing her of starting too early in November. Suzanne Wiggins, 54, has maintained this annual tradition at her home in Tameside for 25 years to honor Courtenay, her daughter who died aged nine from misdiagnosed meningitis in 2000. Despite the backlash, Ms Wiggins is determined to share the story behind the lights and the significance they hold for her family.
The tradition originated in 1995 when the family moved into their Dukinfield house. At first, the decorations were modest, but over time, Courtenay began spending her pocket money on decorations and enjoyed handing out mince pies to passersby. Ms Wiggins recalls her daughter’s enthusiasm fondly and promised to continue the display in her memory after her sudden illness and passing. “Courtenay loved putting the lights on – and I promised I’d carry it on after she died,” she explained, highlighting how important this ritual is to keeping her daughter’s memory alive.
Courtenay’s illness began abruptly with symptoms mistaken for a stomach bug. Despite repeated visits to the doctor, she was told there was nothing seriously wrong. Ms Wiggins shared heartbreaking moments during the ordeal, such as when Courtenay expressed fears of dying while holding her hand. By the time she was finally admitted to hospital, Courtenay was severely dehydrated, and her condition deteriorated rapidly, resulting in her death less than three weeks later. The family sought help from multiple hospitals and doctors internationally but ultimately could not save her.
Over the years, the community in Dukinfield has been supportive of Ms Wiggins’s tribute, often showing their encouragement during the festive display. She used to host a large gathering for over 80 people to mark the lighting ceremony each year until three years ago. However, with new residents unfamiliar with the tradition, Ms Wiggins has encountered vandalism and unkind comments, including a young girl shouting that it was too early to put up Christmas lights. She recently posted in a local group asking for understanding, emphasizing her efforts to be considerate to neighbors while honoring her daughter’s memory. “Let me do what I need to do to remember her,” she said
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