The Cottage is a ten-bed hospice, operated by the St. James Social Service Society, which provides palliative care for terminally ill adults. The hospice opened in 1999 and is located in East Vancouver’s Burrardview Park that has fabulous views of Burrard Inlet and the North Shore Mountains. The hospice occupies a restored class B historical building that was originally an orphanage called “Babies Cottage”, built in 1924 by the Children’s Aid Society. The flowers gardens were established and maintained by MGs and volunteers with some assistance from Vancouver Parks staff.
Residents are unable to garden, but enjoy spending time on the patios with their families and friends and like to recall happy memories of their gardening experiences with the MGs. Residents, families and hospice staff have stated that the garden gives them some peace and comfort when dealing with end-of-life issues.
The Master Gardeners and MGs in training duties consist of maintaining the flower beds and planters, while interacting with residents. David Stemler, MG, manages the garden and coordinates work of volunteer MGs. Hours are flexible, and Master Gardeners can set their own schedule. Help with Spring & Fall clean up is appreciated /span>
Staff walk patients around the garden where they talk about their own love of gardening or flowers. One such patient, though weak, held the hose from his wheelchair to water the plants. He talked about it for days, how he helped MG David water the garden.
The gardens guiding principal is to always have something in bloom, and to have flowers visible through windows to residents who may be unable to get outside. That and the breathtaking views of the northshore mountains make for a serene setting. The garden at St. James Cottage is like a living memorial to many souls who have passed away there
