The choir sang, the flowers were in bloom, and the day was perfect. You could not have asked for a lovelier day to gather together and remember those who we have loved and lost.
“Although this is only the second year we have had the Memorial Patio, the Memory Ceremony has become so meaningful to us. It’s a wonderful opportunity for people to remember their loved one, connect with some of those who may have cared for them, and have the chance to discover the Garden,” says Elaine Cartier, Hospice Administrator at Franklin VNA & Hospice.
It seemed meaningful to those who came as well, with some tears, some embraces, and some who took the opportunity to take a photo of their memorial brick.
Tobias Nyatsambo, Hospice Chaplain for Franklin VNA & Hospice, spoke on the meaning of gardens and the importance of recognizing the cycle of life and death as one that is natural. In closing he invited all to explore the Garden and visit the patio any time they needed a little peace. 

The Teuscher-Wilson Hospice Garden, located behind the Franklin VNA & Hospice at 75 Chestnut Street, Franklin, is open to the public at any time. The Garden was created in partnership with the Winnisquam Regional High School Agricultural and Natural Resources Program, volunteers and Founding Donor, Watts Water Technologies. This year also brought donations of flowers from Surowiec Farm in Sanbornton, and flowers and materials to build the garden arch from the Tilton Lowe’s, the newest project the Winnisquam students have taken on 

for the Garden.

“It’s been amazing to see people come together to support this space,” says Cartier. “It is truly valued as a place to find peace, remember loved ones, and bring together communities.”