A showcase in progress, what a fabulous tribute to cancer survivors! All those brave souls who lived through the dreaded diagnosis. There are as many different types of cancer as there are people in the world (small exaggeration.) No respector of persons, cancer strikes all ages and walks of life.
This park has been on my radar for months. I was so excited to finally stroll through. I grew up around golf, so I was completely fascinated with the grass. The word GREEN doesn’t seem like a colorful enough adjective. I won’t go on and on, but just know it’s the perfect place to throw down a blanket and relax.
A LITTLE HISTORY
The Cancer Survivors Park Alliance (CSPA), once called Patients First, was formed in 1999 as a non-profit organization. Their goal is to make patients, survivors and caregivers aware of the resources available apart from the hospital. Those touched by cancer needed a place of “respite, rejuvenation, inspiration, education, hope and celebration…” The Cancer Survivors Park is the answer.
Patients, along with their families and friends, can escape the demands of treatment, reclaim their focus, and find a sense of peace.
THE GARDEN PARTY
We had the privilege of attending the Grand Opening Garden Party on June 2nd. It was a beautiful night to introduce the community to the park. Live music followed us across bridges into the different gardens. My personal favorite was the children’s garden. Artist Charles Pate, Jr.’s bronze sculpture, “Fear Not” is the focal point. A child protected in the arms of a lion brought tears to my eyes.
I could sit here all night staring at my cursor trying to put into words how the Cancer Survivors Park made me feel. Instead, I’ll leave you with the description by founding member, Tom Keith (per their website):
“Gardens reflect life. They are ever-changing and ever renewing. They often present tremendous challenges and don’t turn out as planned, but with persistence, the rewards are worth the efforts. There is a rhythm to a garden – a continuity that offers hope and a sense of peace. A stroll through a garden invigorates the spirit and re-anchors us within the cycle of life. ”
Well said.
I am proud to live in a city that spotlights the things in life that are truly important.
Leave a Reply