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A new replacement bench at the Gardens at Memorial. The new benches were provided by the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation.
Sulphur Springs, TX – In 2006, the project of the very first Hopkins County Health Care Foundation Lights of Life Gala was to fund the establishment of the Gardens at Memorial. They intend the gardens to be a quiet place for patient families to sit or walk the meandering pathway to think, pray, reflect, or relax.
It took two years, two Galas, and other fundraising projects to pay for the beautiful park that flanks the hospital building. Back then, the Hopkins County Hospital District owned the Memorial Hospital property.
In 2016, the Hospital District partnered with CHRISTUS Health to establish what is now known as CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital–Sulphur Springs. The Gardens have continued to be a vital part of the CMF-SS campus, with the hospital keeping the grounds well-maintained.
The Gardens at Memorial have been a healing place since they established it. They not only serve the families of hospital patients but are often a favorite spot for hospital associates and the EMS staff to regroup. Caregivers of all types find respite in the Gardens.
Dotting the walking track are several benches donated to honor or in memory of individuals. Additionally, they install plaques to memorialize and recognize community members, family members, and Hospital Auxiliary volunteers. There is even a soothing water feature on one end of the rectangular-shaped park.
At the July meeting of the Foundation board, the directors heard a request from CMF-SS President and CEO Paul Harvey asking for financial support to replace the wooden benches worn beyond repair. The proposal was approved, and they installed the new ones bearing the original placards. Now, families and staff members have a place to sit, reflect, rejuvenate, and soak in the beauty of nature.
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation was founded in 1997 and is an IRS-designated 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.