Ripon volunteers come together to build sensory garden for young girl
12-year-old Chloe has a life-limiting condition and relies on a wheelchair
Last updated 8th Oct 2020
A community group in Ripon is appealing for volunteers to help build a sensory garden for a girl with a life-limiting condition.
The Ripon Lions are funding the project, but are looking for people with the know-how to help 12-year-old Chloe.
The garden will include raised flower beds so Chloe can feel the plants from her wheelchair, as well as a water feature for Chloe to hear and feel.
It’s being co-ordinated by Helen Mackenzie, from the Ripon Lions. She posted in a Facebook group for the town asking for help:
“Loads of women texted me and said, ‘I’m going to kick my husband, he’s going to have a go at it as well.’
“Suddenly we’ve got this army of people who are wanting to help, and it’s all just a gorgeous project with a happy feel to it that I think people just want to be part of it.
“A lot of people did gardening during lockdown as part of a therapeutic thing and have realised the benefits. Chloe’s going to reap those benefits.”
"It'll make what life she’s got left that bit more fun”
Chloe’s Mum Liz told Greatest Hits Radio about the impact the garden will have on Chloe.
As well as a life-limiting condition, she has uncontrolled epilepsy, severe scoliosis on her back, a cyst growing on her spine, and a brain tumour, meaning she can’t see or hear properly. She’s also tube fed.
Liz is overwhelmed by the support of the community:
“It is incredible. I don’t have a lot more to say without getting teary.
“It’s amazing what people will do to help.
“It’ll mean the world to her and make what life she’s got left that bit more fun.”