At some point in our lives, we may face a difficult challenge that requires
us to rely on Faith, Hope, and Courage to overcome. For many, receiving
a cancer diagnosis can be that challenge. Our promise is to make a positive
impact on this journey by providing as much compassion and professional
care as possible.
The Garden of Hope was created in 2012 as a result of one patient’s
journey. A hardworking farmer and proud rancher, Pops was struggling to
be inside the clinical environment during his cancer treatments. He was
heard to say one day, “Isn’t there a bench outside for me
to sit on while I take this juice?” The planning stage began!
The Garden of Hope opened in September of 2012 and became a unique and
inspiring space for those receiving cancer treatment. When the new Shannon
Cancer Center was built in 2023, plans began to relocate the Garden of
Hope into its new space so it could continue to be enjoyed by patients
and their families.
The Garden of Hope, situated outside the Shannon Cancer Center, is a unique
healing space adorned with stunning symbols of tribute, enriched by foliage,
flowers and shrubs. The garden serves as a therapeutic peaceful environment
for patients and their families, offering them a chance to sit and relax,
connect with others, and even undergo their treatment therapy outside
in the midst of nature’s rejuvenating energy. It’s an atmosphere
that guarantees a tranquil and revitalizing refuge, a true sanctuary that
promotes healing of the mind, body, and soul.
As patients enter the Garden through “Hope’s Door”, their
eyes will be drawn to the curved rock walls mixed with metal slatted beams
that sway rhythmically up and down contributing to the garden’s
energy which in turn gives rise to hope. Once inside, our patient is greeted
by a serene white marble Angel named “Hope”, whose infectious
spirit is lifted by the movement of its surroundings while quiescently
residing over places to stop and sit, and offers the blessings of the garden.
Along the path, there are private, peaceful places to take in the surroundings.
The soft sound of trickling water fills your senses as it flows over a
substantial boulder that plays host to frisky birds and sunbathing geckos
finding respite in the water pools and cool shade of a mighty oak. The
petrified pieces of wood atop the boulder were carefully selected by the
patient, whose memorial it represents.
Around the first corner one is greeted by a softly painted metal sculpture,
depicting winding plant stems with butterflies on board the three organic
stems representing “Faith, Hope & Courage.” The butterflies
represent a patient as they journey through their cancer treatment. The
top most prominent butterfly adorned with colored glass has reached its
final determination flying freely to its future.
The garden’s path leads beyond to the “Cross of Mini-Crosses”
which was created by symbols of friendship and love. Visitors can sit
and reflect in prayer while enjoying the peaceful retreat as they notice
the sweet dove resting above.
Finally, the path continues to wind around to the northeast corner to a
joyful tribute named “Joy” residing in front of a curved rock
wall that leads to “Nana’s Gate” and the garden’s end.
A Place Where Hope Lives
Patients will also be able to sense the garden’s peaceful atmosphere
through large windows inside the treatment center where the garden’s
beautiful landscape and tributes may be viewed. Patients can move freely
about the center, and in and out of the garden through the exquisitely
adorned and welcoming “Hope’s Door”.
Inside the Oncology Treatment Center, patients are surrounded by a serene,
comfortable and peaceful environment with lots of special care, where
they can allow themselves to relax and escape their worries for just a
little while.
Hope’s Door
Represents the memory of Hope Wilson Huffman by her husband, James Gordon
Huffman, and their two daughters, Grace Wilson Huffman and Virginia Lynn
Huffman. Hope Wilson Huffman was born in San Angelo, and graduated from
Central High School and then from The University of Texas. Hope was keenly
interested in politics and worked for many high-level campaigns. She was
very active in the community and volunteered her time with a number of
organizations, including the Humane Society of Tom Green County and the
West Texas Rehabilitation Center. Hope was also an avid land conservationist
and loved being outdoors. She possessed a zest for life and generosity
of spirit that brightened the world for all around her, and those who
were privileged to share in her love and affection will forever hold her
close in their hearts.
Hope’s Door features an art nouveau design by Treva Boyd. This design
enhances the calming, therapeutic atmosphere of the treatment facility,
providing patients with a connection to the Garden of Hope. It allows
them the opportunity to seek solace in the open air while still receiving
their treatment.
Art Nouveau features an organic design that can be both balanced and asymmetrical,
embracing lines and curves that beautifully incorporate nature and plants.
With this picturesque style, we strived to evoke the awareness of a peaceful,
open-air environment, inviting visitors to walk through and experience
our wonderful garden creation for themselves.
Inside the tranquil treatment room, patients can see a lovely
Lotus Bloom as the focal point of Hope’s Door. The lotus symbolizes inner strength
and holds significant meaning in various religions. It is considered one
of the most sacred plants because of its unique journey: it emerges from
the water, follows the movements of the sun throughout the day, and then
closes back up to return to the water.
A delicate
Dragonfly lands on a vine, delivering a message of change, transformation, and new
beginnings. It epitomizes happiness, good luck, and the courage to embrace
rebirth, as it begins its life in water. Its significance encourages us
to shed our old selves to make way for the new.
The
Butterfly rests a bit higher on a vine across from the dragonfly, representing the
magical transformation of a caterpillar. This metamorphosis embodies rebirth
and transformation, illustrating how we must look within ourselves to
dissolve old forms in order to rebuild and evolve. It emphasizes the importance
of surrender and trust as essential components of growth and renewal.
More importantly butterflies symbolize hope and bravery, signifying that
positive change is occurring and that protective forces are watching over
us to ensure a graceful transition. They encourage us to navigate our
transformations with confidence. Initially, a caterpillar cannot foresee
what lies ahead, but it heeds its secret call to go inward, allowing rebirth
to unfold. This process exemplifies the self-determination needed to ultimately
take flight and be free.
The top border features a
Bird, which symbolizes the connection between humans and animals. Birds in
art often express themes of flight, hope, and dreams. They embody both
the human and divine spirit through their ability to soar freely, linking
the earth, sky, and water. Birds can represent our souls, as well as wisdom
and the power of thought. They have been portrayed in many religions and
classic paintings. Paired with their visual beauty, they make heavenly
music and hold the secrets of the universe (’a little birdie told
me’).
We invite you to discover the Garden of Hope through “Hope’s
Door.”
Gate of Courage
Given by Dr’s. David and Dinah Cummings in tribute to the courageous
patients and providers who have walked this path – yesterday, today
and tomorrow. David Cummings, M.D. is a Medical Oncologist at Shannon
Cancer Center. He has been caring for patients and practicing in the field
of cancer medicine for over 20 years. As an integral part of Shannon’s
Oncology Department, who better knows the path patients walk than one
of their hopeful healers, and the spouse he goes home to each night. He
is married to Dinah Jane Cummings, Ph.D., who is a Professor at Angelo
State University and Regional Director of the Laura W. Bush Institute
for Women’s Health. This beautiful gate’s delicate scrolling
allows privacy, yet a peek at the garden from the outside.
Angel of Hope
Pollyanna and F.L. “Steve” Stephens have gifted this beautiful
angel sculpture to San Angelo, friends, and citizens, with love and prayer.
This exquisite marble angel was carved in the 1800’s in France and
now, promisingly presides over the Garden of Hope. The angel’s inviting
demeanor almost urges visitors to share their daily burdens. If it could
speak, it might convey the Stephen’s message from Romans, “Be
joyful in hope, patient in tribulation, and faithful in prayer.”
Romans 12:12.
Red Cardinal Bench
Given by Mayfield Paper Company, the red cardinal bench celebrates the
amazing life of Deanna Mayfield who was a power house in a small package,
and who always supported her beloved country while wearing red. The red
cardinal bench reminds us of Deanna’s patriotism and love for this
country and all her endeavors to improve our community and state! She
had a positive outlook and contagious smile which she said was the best
medicine to have around! It also honors the staff of the Shannon Oncology
Center. Mayfield Paper, founded in San Angelo, Texas, in 1945, is honored
to contribute to community health.
Teardrop of Pavers
Carefully placed stones lead to a teardrop of pavers, some of which are
engraved. These engraved pavers were donated by friends and loved ones
of patients that have been treated by Shannon Cancer Center. While subtle
in its design, the teardrop carries a significant secret for the garden.
Teardrops are multifaceted, much like our emotions; we experience them
during times of disappointment and anguish, but we also feel them in moments
of joy, happiness, and love. Only the bearer understands why their tears
are summoned.
Pop’s Place
This special place was designed and donated by Treva Jeter Boyd in memory
of her dad, H.R. “Pops” Jeter, who was a storyteller, tireless
working farmer and rancher, and a creative inventor. He loved his Angus
cattle and his Rocking J Ranch. As a man of the land, he had a huge appreciation
of our water sources and protecting them, hence the fountain to remember
him by. Pops was an avid reader about agriculture and wildlife, and enjoyed
driving country back roads, thrilled at “putting the hammer down”,
and held the land speed record while hauling a huge tractor atop his trailer,
behind a Dually pick-up! Pops was a happy man who didn’t want to
talk about his troubles and enjoyed visiting with folks he didn’t
know. He was well-liked and well-known in the best counties. Sometimes
a prankster, one who performed a hand-spring on his birthdays until his 66th, and, his tickle box would easily turn over when he enjoyed a good tale.
Pops mostly loved his wife’s infamous hot rolls and cherry pies.
“Joyas voladoras” (Flying Jewels)
The Hummingbird Bench
In memory of Glenna, by Doug and Mary Eakman, honoring Glenna Vaughan Williams
is this very special crescent shaped bench adorned by humming birds…Joyas
Voladoras (hoyas bo-la-dor-as) or Flying Jewels to complete its description.
Upon arrival to the Americas, the Spanish attached this name to a small
bird feverishly flying faster than the eye could see around beautiful
flowers. In January 2003, the Eakman family suffered the loss of Glenna
to breast cancer. Glenna was only 46 years old when she was taken by this
disease. She was an extraordinary person that loved life and much like
a hummingbird, seemed to be in constant motion. We hope this bench will
provide a spot in front of the flowing fountain for slowing down a bit,
but that it will also be a reminder to keep flying, always!
Sturdy Oak Tree
In honor of Nancy’s fight against cancer, a tree of hope stands tall
and proud in the garden. This sturdy oak, donated by Jimmy Powell and
his late wife Nancy, not only provides shelter and shade, but also serves
as a home for birds, adding their melodious chorus to the peaceful ambiance
as it casts its evening shadow upon the rock fountain. Nancy’s wish
was to have something representing her fight, and this tree does just
that. What could be more peaceful than to watch a tree as it stretches
and bends in the wind, while birds jump and fly among its branches. To
be a tree or plant growing here in West Texas, takes a great deal of courage
and strength to endure. An appropriate description of Nancy…she
was sturdy, courageous, beautiful and an example for us all! It is a tribute
not only to Nancy, but also to the dedicated doctors and nurses who work
tirelessly to treat and encourage patients every day. Jimmy, Nancy’s
husband, is a well-respected rancher, investor in the Concho Valley, and
an advocate for education.
Faith, Hope & Courage
This sculpture was donated by Ellen Lassetter in memory of her husband,
David Lassetter.
David was always a goal setter, but when he was diagnosed with cancer his
goals changed from job-filled daily and weekly responsibilities to longterm
significant family benchmarks. He lined the edges of the mirror in the
bathroom with sticky notes listing more important things he wanted to
accomplish. Being around to see his sons participate in high school sports,
attend their proms, graduate, and enter college were important goals for
him and probably kept him alive much longer. He met these goals by having
faith that God would see him through his ordeal,
hope that his treatments would help him be present during important family
times, and being
courageous enough to fight with all his might! He loved to fish and made sure during
his well periods he took both sons to the coast as often as possible.
To this day Andrew and Adam find joy in fishing and memories of their
dad. David was a leader for The Hearst Corporation’s division of
Associated Publishing. When individuals he was training got discouraged,
he would encourage them to “throw it in the backseat and go on down
the road.” He lived by his motto.
In the original Garden of Hope, a mosaic of a cancer ribbon made of kiln
fired butterflies was donated by O.L. and Dorothy Schuch, and J.O. and
Mary Dell Lane. It was forever secured to the brick wall surrounding the
Garden at the former Shannon Oncology Center. Since it could not be removed,
the butterflies adorning this sculpture were inspired by them and our
way to honor them in the new Garden. Butterflies are a sign of hope, and
as they fly upward through the winding stems of the sculpture, they signify
a patient’s journey during treatment. The top most beautiful one
has reached the end of its journey as it has either been healed or moves
on to the future whatever it may hold.
The Making of “Faith, Hope & Courage”
The sculpture was donated by Ellen Lassetter and designed by Treva Boyd.
It’s one thing to come up with a sketch on paper, but entirely another
to translate the original concept to a 3-D model and then interpret it
to a computer drawing. Sharon Flippin of AdArt DeSigns has that brilliant
experience and talent. She and her husband, Gary, have over 45 years of
experience in the sign and graphic design industry. They both worked tirelessly
on the sculpture, sanding, painting and working to stabilize it for transport.
Sharon and Treva have worked together on projects involving the Garden
in its original location. Sharon has had her own personal journey with
cancer giving her a unique perspective of the emotional and healing impact
that the Garden of Hope can have on cancer patients and is always the
first in line to give a helping hand for the benefit of others. Sharon
was able to interpret the original concept in such a way that the talented
Justin Ahler of J&T’s Welding could utilize it with his plasma
cutting machine. He cut three straps of metal about 10 feet tall each
and took the straps to Wendland Manufacturing. After brainstorming with
Devery Baker and Terry Shelton, they ran the 3 strips through their huge
plate roller machine which curled and gave them their shapes.
Back at J&T’s, Justin, Sharon and Treva determined how to intertwine
the strips to create the basis for the sculpture and where to secure them
to the metal base. Justin welded them in place with the assistance of
Dennis Miller, Kaleb Bannert and Trace McCrea. He cut out holes along
the base plate for future bolts to be added when securing the finished
piece to a concrete base at the hospital and then set out to stabilize
it further to keep it from swaying by welding several braces in place.
Included in the original concept were curving leaves of metal coming up
from the base which not only added to the esthetic of the overall piece,
but acted as additional stabilizers as well. The next step was to cut
out butterflies using the specs from Sharon sent to Justin’s plasma
cutter. After the butterflies were cut, the job of locating them around
the sculpture was determined so that they could be creased at the wings
and welded in place.
It was amazing to watch young Justin utilize his ingenuity and creativity
to construct such a magnificent piece of art! After all the butterflies
were welded, Sharon and Treva painted the entire sculpture and added colored
glass to the top large butterfly, and a seal coat was added to keep the
sculpture from rusting. The final stage was to transport the piece to
Shannon Hospital and bolt the sculpture with its metal base to the concrete
slab for its final resting place in the Garden of Hope.
Our thanks to all those who contributed monetarily and were involved in
the design and initiation of this beautiful piece, all without asking
to be reimbursed knowing who it would represent, how it would be enjoyed
and the many cancer patients it would impact. We are indeed blessed to
live in such a community with those who are influenced by God, and who
generously pay it forward.
This is so much more than just a sculpture. The machinery and tools used
to create it and the diverse group of people that came together to design
and build it, could not have accomplished this beautiful art without the
grace of God. We pray you will be touched in a profound way by its presence
in the Garden as we pass this on with love in our hearts.
A Cross for Kevin
Is dedicated to the memory of R. Kevin Housley by his family, Mona &
the late Robert D. “Bob” Housley, Cindee Housley Woods, Sam
Housley and Symphony Tomme Fischer, Vicki Layman, Jessica Housley Chesshire
and Christopher Housley. Remembering Kevin’s joyous laughter makes
us smile still today. He showed us that helping hands can touch so many
lives. He lived and loved without reservation and we will always adore
him. Kevin was always ready to walk with us, be by our side, stand behind
us, and now, lead the way.
Since Bob’s passing in 2020, Kevin’s cross has a sweet dove
perched on top, which symbolizes Bob and epitomizes their relationship.
This stunning, grand, iron cross made of smaller crosses is representative
of Kevin’s faith and embodies his life. The smaller crosses were
donated by his close friends some showing their initials. It will continue
to patina with age and grow in beauty and remind us of his many gifts.
We’ll remember Kevin as he lived.
“Les Trois Gardiens”, the three guardians, represent the white boulders resting in front of
Kevin’s Cross, for Bob, Mona and Vicki, and are a powerful inspiration
of how their family shared life and loved one another.
Joy
Mike Boyd dedicated this piece to his mom, Leta “Joy” Culp
Boyd, who was known for her infectious smile, energetic step, and quirky
little laugh. She took great pride in her two grandsons, and four great-grandsons,
and always seized the opportunity to “brag” about them; she
never forgot a special occasion to send them a note and slip money inside
a card. Joy loved following pro-sports and college games, and her colorful
enthusiasm spilled over onto the boys and their sports. She always encouraged
them to approach everything with the same passion and determination that
she had. Despite her height of only 5’6”, Joy was a dynamite
basketball player in high school and college, which inspired an artistic
rendition of her in the garden. Her legacy continues to encourage others
to reach for the heavens, just like Joy did!
Nana’s Gate
Remembering Beverly, this gate was donated by Jeff, Cari, Cameron, Avrey
and Jansen Curry in honor of Cari’s mother, Beverly “Nana”
Clark. Beverly fought a valiant two-year battle with ovarian cancer. She
was best known for her influence on our community’s children while
working at the First Baptist Montessori and at Sierra Vista’s Mom’s
Morning Out. She was known as “Mrs. Beverly” to those children,
“Nana” to her grandchildren and “Mom” to her own
children. Nana’s Gate protects the final boundary of the Garden
of Hope, and as it is constructed to allow a soft breeze through to find
its way around the rest of the garden to the beginning, we are reminded
that there is no end, just anew beginning.
Bistro Tables
These essential places to sit with family or friends, share a meal with
a companion, or play a game of checkers, or just read a book while enjoying
the peaceful atmosphere of the garden while receiving treatment, were
graciously donated by First Financial Bank, Sendero Drilling Company,
and The Bank & Trust.
The Garden of Hope serves as a testament to our love for one another. We
are a caring community, neighbors that come to the aid of others with
our love and generosity. The garden was created as a lasting legacy to
individuals and families through their gifts of donations and support
for not only those they love, or have loved and lost, but all who have
been touched by cancer. We invite you to join us as we come together to
celebrate this special place for cancer patients in San Angelo and the
Concho Valley, rejoicing together for this lasting place of hope; The
Garden of Hope.
The Garden of Hope is made possible through contributions from individuals
and families. Donations for teardrop pavers and replanting seasonal flowers
may be made with “Seeds of Hope” through Shannon Cancer Center.