For years, Bruce (pictured here) and Shirley MacNaughton dreamed of owning the small piece of land beside their business in New Glasgow, PEI. A gorgeous, lush green, tree-dotted paradise draping down toward the water, they envisioned a garden where anyone could enjoy the natural beauty the couple loved so much. Then came the idea of a respite cottage to help bring peace and healing to people who needed it most.

As local residents and long-time owners of The Prince Edward Island Preserve Company, Bruce and Shirley gave voice to their dreams, talking to people about their plans, translating the garden paths and flower beds from minds’ eye sketches and imagined blueprints into words that drifted out onto the rolling PEI hills.

That’s when a neighbour donated stone from a nearby quarry. Next, a local priest offered them a chapel that was being closed down. Before they knew it, The Gardens of Hope Respite Cottage became a reality.

The Gardens offer rest to the road-weary and the cottage provides respite to individuals and families dealing with life-threatening illness or compassion fatigue. People flock from across North America to soothe their souls on the land that brought Bruce and Shirley so much joy. It’s a gift that was built and supported by the two, but also by the people of New Glasgow. And it continues to give back – to visitors, and the community.

Today, The Gardens offer rest to the road-weary and the cottage provides respite to individuals and families dealing with life-threatening illness or compassion fatigue.

Bruce MacNaughton
Co-creator, The Respite Cottage

 

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