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Volunteers Provide Garden Oasis For People With Breast Cancer

BOSTON (CBS) – A group of volunteers is giving people fighting breast cancer hope by creating therapeutic sanctuaries right in their own back yards. It's called Hope in Bloom.

Today, thanks to some high school students, a Sharon couple who both have the disease have a little more color in their lives.

The mission of Hope in Bloom is to create an oasis for people with breast cancer, and their latest creation is at Mike and Kara Selsman's home in Sharon.

"We are being gifted a garden from this wonderful organization called Hope in Bloom," Kara says.

"Flowers make people happy, and when you're sick it's particularly important to be in a good state of mind so you're receptive to treatment," adds Roberta Hershon, the founder of the organization.

Mike Selsman was diagnosed five years ago, one of the small number of men with the illness. It was a late diagnosis since checking for breast cancer in men, too often, just doesn't happen.

"Because I'm in Stage 4 I'll be in treatment for the rest of my life," he says.

Kara's cancer was caught early and she's finished treatment.

Hope In Bloom
Two breast cancer patients received a garden at their home thanks to a group of high school volunteers. (WBZ-TV)

The garden will be a place of peace for them, a place to escape from the world of hospitals and sickness.

"It's really very therapeutic and very helpful to be able to take a breath, and feel like you're in a different environment," Mike says.

"Having that little bit of peace and having a place to relax is really important for Mike to fight his disease," Kara added.

The money for the garden comes from the Sharon High School Photo Club, young shutterbugs who create and sell note cards to fund this work. This is their fifth garden.

"It means a lot to me to be able to give back to other people," says Jordan Chabot, a member of the club.

Hope In Bloom
Volunteers create a garden at a Sharon home. (WBZ-TV)

"I have an aunt who is affected by breast cancer, so it's personal for me," adds Lia Mongado, another student.

Melissa Starr, another club member, added she hopes the group's message remains with the couple.

"I hope they can come outside and sit down and think, oh, this was given by people who care," says Melissa Starr, who is also in the club.

This is the 127th garden Hope in Bloom has created. It's all free for the recipients.

Many people contribute. In addition to the students, the garden was supported by donations from Maltby Tree, AA Will and Prides Corner Farm. The design was created by Samantha Best of Magma Design Group.

For more information about breast cancer and men, visit the Male Breast Cancer Coalition and Protect the Pecs websites.

 

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