Residents of Garden Village recently came together for a heartfelt event called Planting Hope, which combined cancer awareness with a symbolic act of tree planting.

The initiative was led by village manager Lauren Rheeder, who said the idea came from wanting to celebrate life while honouring those affected by cancer.

“I grew up knowing that you plant a tree in September for Arbour Day,” Rheeder explained. “Because I had just taken over the village then, we couldn’t do it at the time. So, I thought, what can we do to combine planting with cancer awareness? That’s how Planting Hope was born.”

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The event received support from local sponsors Colourful Splendour and Multiflora Johannesburg, who donated a variety of beautiful plants for the garden. Residents, staff, and families joined hands to plant them in an area now known as the Garden of Remembrance.

“The garden is a place to remember loved ones we’ve lost, to celebrate those who have survived cancer, and to show support for those still fighting,” Rheeder said.

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: A Garden Village resident plants a flowering plant in honour of his late wife. #Plant #Gardenvillage #Randburg ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

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The day carried deep emotion for many. Rheeder shared that one resident planted a plant in memory of his late wife, who had died of cancer, while several breast cancer survivors proudly took part in the ceremony.

“There were tears, but also smiles,” Rheeder said. “We were all there as a family, from our maintenance and garden teams to admin, supporting one another. That’s what our Garden Village community stands for.”
After getting their hands dirty in the garden, residents were serenaded by a duo from Pretoria, Annelize Groenewald and Phillip Kotze.

The event also received support from AVBOB, whose senior liaison officer, Pam Appelgryn, said were proud to be part of the initiative.

“As AVBOB, we come out to support old age homes and our seniors,” she said. “We just love them and want to give back. That’s what we do, support and appreciate them.”

Rheeder added that the day perfectly reflected the organisation’s philosophy, known as the Eden way of living, creating a home where residents feel valued, connected, and supported.

“At Garden Village, we believe this is your home,” said Rheeder. “And we’re here to make it a place of love, hope, and belonging.”

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