It’s a living tribute to volunteers at a local world-class cancer research and treatment facility, and now patients and families who spend time at the Cross Cancer Institute will benefit from the newly unveiled outdoor space.
The Healing Garden was officially opened in a ceremony held Tuesday morning – the $700,000 outdoor garden and plaza space is located on the west side of the Cross Cancer Institute.
“Cancer treatment is physically and emotionally difficult for patients and their loved ones, and the government supports any initiative that can help make that experience easier,” Health Minister Fred Horne said in a press release.
The garden includes two plaza areas, where patients and their families can sit, surrounded by perennial flowers, grasses, shrubs and trees.
It’s hoped the garden will act as an oasis for those touched by cancer.
“I hope it brings a place of distraction, where they can reflect on blessings, gratitude, reasons for hope, where they can enjoy the outdoors and feel connected to the wider world,” Susan Carr with the Cross Cancer Institute Volunteer Association (CCIVA) said.
Alberta Health Services said the garden, which is also wheelchair-accessible, is the brainchild of the CCIVA as a tribute to current and past members, many of whom helped raise money for the project.
In addition, the Alberta Cancer Foundation and Delnor Construction Ltd. also contributed to the project.
