A staff member’s idea blossoms into a peaceful place for palliative patients

Gail Cameron, the Director of Child Health at the Grey Nuns has always thought there needed to be a private and peaceful place for palliative and ICU patients to go with their families to get fresh air. In May, when some rare outdoor space at the hospital became available, Gail approached John Boucher from the Caritas Foundation and asked if he would support a $25 thousand makeover of the area. The answer was yes and the Hope Garden was developed. By mid-June, patients were enjoying it.

Feedback from the patients and their families has been excellent. They no longer have to sit at the front of the hospital. Instead they enjoy the private, covered space, with beautiful flowers and comfortable patio furniture. Gail, who doesn’t even work in the patient areas who are benefiting from the garden, is a testament to what can get done in a short amount of time when you see an opportunity and are driven by compassion.

The Hope Garden was officially opened on Tuesday, August 16 with a blessing ceremony by Fr. Mike McCaffrey.