Southampton Hospital’s Garden Of Hope Receives Major Update

Twenty years ago, a group of dedicated volunteers decided to turn a vacant area on the grounds of Southampton Hospital, located on the corner of Herrick and Old Town Roads, into the Garden of Hope – a beautiful, peaceful place where patients, survivors, families and members of the East End community can go to reflect, relax and find the beauty in life when they’re dealing with a difficult time.

The Garden’s transformation was an undertaking that was supported by many volunteers, landscapers and elected officials.

Earlier this summer, more than 30 local nurseries, landscape designers and workers joined forces to give the Garden a little TLC, as they tackled a substantial overhaul that re-imagined and updated the Garden of Hope.

“Thanks to the outpouring of support for the Garden of Hope – the dozens of landscape suppliers donating time and materials, and the many volunteers who took time out of their days to help with planting — the Garden has been brought back to life and is once again a beautiful, peaceful place,” noted Robert S. Chaloner, President & CEO, Southampton Hospital.

Volunteers addressed trees and shrubs that had grown past their prime size – trimming the excess and removing the greenery when necessary. Both Hospital employees and community members came out to lend a “green” helping hand by planting new blooms. New lighting fixtures were also installed.

One of the Garden’s centerpieces is a brick walkway that pays tribute to friends and members of the East End community who have experienced breast cancer or other life-threatening illnesses. The Garden’s update will include an extended walkway. Additionally, a water fountain, crafted by Eagle Scout Jack Sweeney, will enhance the Garden’s tranquil surroundings.

“The Hospital is most fortunate to have a community that understood the significance of the Garden and came together for a project of this scope,” added Chaloner.

Southampton Hospital will celebrate the community’s hard work with an official Garden of Hope dedication ceremony, as part of Breast Cancer Awareness month, on Monday, October 24th at 4:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www.southamptonhospital.org.