Cancer Institute Garden Gets Makeover With Bedford Garden Club's Help

MOUNT KISCO, NY — There is more to meets the eye at the newly transformed garden at a prestigious Hudson Valley place of healing.

The garden outside the Northwell Health Cancer Institute at Northern Westchester Hospital’s (NWH) has a fresh new look, thanks to a $35,000 grant from the Bedford Garden Club, a non-profit that supports the conservation and beautification of local gardens. The garden, which features eco-friendly, indigenous and sustainable plants, as well as new teak benches, tables and chairs, will be a place for cancer patients and staff to relax, rest and recharge, according to the institute.

The project was spearheaded by garden club members Betsy Mitchell and Cecilia Wolfson. The hard work not only improved the space at the Cancer Institute, but has also changed how the healthcare giant looks at lawn care across its entire campus. The hospital plans to reduce the use of dyed mulches and to use indigenous, regional plantings that survive in the northeast climate.

"We believe the Cancer Institute will help to restore the mental, social and spiritual health of our cancer patients, their families and staff," Northwell Health Executive Director Derek Anderson explained. "This beautiful eco-friendly and sustainable garden is a model program we hope to reproduce throughout our campus."

That assertion, it seems, is backed up with science. According to the Journal of Health and Caring Sciences, gardens have the potential to improve the quality of life for patients both physically and psychologically.

"Like the process of healing gardening takes time and patience," Mitchell agreed.

About Northwell Health

NWH is nationally known for its cancer program and personalized care. US News & World Report recognized the hospital as high performing in lung cancer care in 2023-24. The cancer institute at NWH includes top oncologists and surgeons who treat an extensive list of cancers, including those of the breast, spine, bone, lungs, brain, and digestive system. The hospital has been awarded Gold Certification for excellence in person-centered care by Planetree International and is the only hospital to achieve this certification five times.