Garden of Life: a tranquil haven at Queen Alexandra Hospital
The team at Garsons Titchfield was excited to return to the ‘Garden of Life’ at Queen Alexandra Hospital to reconnect and observe the progress the garden has made since its opening in June 2021.
Back in 2021, Garsons proudly supported the initiative by donating vouchers to help fund the garden’s development, along with providing recommendations on suitable plants. These recommendations were given by our senior sales advisor, Callum, who focused on plant varieties that would bring instant colour and soothing scents to this tranquil space.
The garden’s upkeep has been lovingly taken on by two dedicated hospital volunteers, Kim and Linda, who both share a passion for gardening. Their commitment ensures the space remains a beautiful, tranquil haven for reflection, often visited by patients, families, and staff.
During our visit, we enjoyed hearing Kim and Linda’s journey of becoming involved in the ‘Garden of Life’.
Kim shared her story: "As a fairly new volunteer at Queen Alexandra Hospital, I came across an email asking for help pruning the roses. I met Trevor Mose, head of sustainability, in the garden, and from that moment, I was hooked.
That was late summer 2023. Since then, we have planted over 700 bulbs, cleared invasive vinca, rescued several David Austin roses from being overgrown, and spent countless hours pruning, weeding, and planting to maintain the garden’s beauty. I love every moment I spend here.
Linda and I work well together and share a similar vision for the space. The feedback we receive from patients, visitors, and staff is incredibly touching. People often stop to share their stories — one lady told us that after spending six weeks in the hospital, the garden helped her through her stay. It’s truly a special place, offering a peaceful retreat during stressful times. Every hospital should have a ‘Garden of Life’.”
— Kim Badcock, Garden of Life Volunteer
Linda also shared her experience: "I have volunteered at Queen Alexandra Hospital since 2021, initially as a bag drop volunteer, helping deliver items to patients during the pandemic. I also assisted with pharmacy deliveries, patient surveys, and even visited wards with my dog, Millie, as a Pet Therapy volunteer.
I had noticed the ‘Garden of Life’ starting to look unloved, with its once-beautiful design becoming overgrown. After Millie retired from her ward rounds, I discovered that a fellow volunteer was the sole caretaker of the garden—that volunteer was Kim!
From the moment we met, we clicked, and together, we have been working to restore the garden to its full potential."
— Linda Tipple, Garden of Life Volunteer
Whilst visiting the garden, Callum, was more than happy to share seasonal gardening tips with Kim and Linda. To support their ongoing efforts in maintaining this vital space.
We are delighted to donate £100 in Garsons vouchers, helping to bring more colour and fragrance to the garden. We understand the importance of this peaceful oasis in the heart of a busy hospital, providing patients and staff a place to pause, breathe, and recharge.
Feeling inspired by Callum’s advice, Kim and Linda had a wonderful time visiting Garsons, carefully selecting a variety of plants to enhance their cherished garden. We look forward to seeing the ‘Garden of Life’ flourish through the years.
