Lanterns on the Trail
An Evening of Fellowship & Community
Looking back at the 360+ lanterns glowing along the Keith House, it’s hard not to feel a bit overwhelmed by the beauty of it all. But more than the lights themselves, it was the people behind them that made the night truly special.
Seeing our patient families sharing space with neighbors, friends, and our board members reminded us exactly why we do this. There was a warmth surrounding us that had nothing to do with the temperature and everything to do with the community we’ve built.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Whether you attended Lanterns on the Trail, sponsored a lantern, or simply shared a kind word, you showed our families that they are surrounded by a massive, caring village. We are so incredibly grateful for your support and for making this night a success we'll be talking about for a long time.
360+
Lanterns
Lit
A letter from our
Program Director,
Nicole Herlin
On Thursday, March 13th, Program 4031 hosted the 3rd Annual Lanterns on the Trail event at The Keith House in Fort Worth. Most of us who have experienced the death of a loved one recognize that we live in a culture that makes little room for quiet and reflection.
We are generally given the brief week between death and funeral to step out of the world and address the momentous mystery of death and grief. Lanterns on the Trail is about making space…space for those who grieve and space for those who remember, space to acknowledge that life is sacred and the death of a loved one leaves an unfillable void, but also if we allow it, a light to guide us with memories of love and joy.
We were blessed with a perfect Spring evening filled with new life…green grass and budding trees. David Tribble provided music that celebrated the joy of life. Black and white pictures taken of patients’ hands and displayed with brief descriptions of the patients were reminders that those we serve are not defined by their final days. And all around the house were simple and dignified white paper lanterns bearing the names of those we have loved and remember, each one bearing a lighted candle to remind us of the unique and precious light of every life. All of this was set at the beautiful Keith House, featuring the light show of David Turrell, creating a reflective space that reinforced the message of the light of joy that can come even in the darkness of loss.
The atmosphere was congenial. Families sought out their lanterns, took pictures, shed tears and shared stories. Among the lanterns lining the Keith House was a lantern for each of the patients served by Project 4031 in 2025. An event committee made up of families we had previously served lent authenticity to the experience.
As Program Committee member, Dr. Penny Armstrong reflected: “In this time of so much rushing and hustle, you created a space of calm, reflection, and peace. Listening to people pause, remember, and honor loved ones was such a testament to your efforts and the good work of Project 4031.”
In our work at Project 4031 to care for our terminally ill North Texas neighbors by providing funding for basic needs and fulfilling final dreams, we always want to bring light into a difficult time. We hope to ease burdens and help families focus on one another and make good memories to carry forward. Lanterns on the Trail celebrates that mission by remembering the light of each life we had the privilege to touch.
Nicole Herlin, Program Director
Event Highlights
A Sincere Thanks to Our Event Sponsors
Amy & Ernie Kremling
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Nissa & Ryan Harrington
Check us out in the Fort Worth Report!
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The Heart Behind the Glow
This event carried such deep meaning because of our Lanterns on the Trail Committee. Comprised of family members who have walked this journey themselves, they ensured every detail was intentional and respectful of the patients we serve.
To our committee: thank you for sharing your stories and your vision to help us create a true sanctuary. We are so lucky to have your voices guiding us.
The Hands Project
Presence
The Hands Project is a tangible reflection of presence—each set of hands is carefully photographed to honor the unique life and story of a patient we have served.
Remembrance
The completed hands are offered to families as a lasting keepsake—something they can hold, remember, and return to when words fall short.
Connection
Every set of hands represents a moment of connection. Together, they tell the story of the patients we have walked alongside during some of life’s most tender seasons.
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