The new location of Sigrids Garden in Coevorden was officially opened with the cutting of the ribbon. The place where everyone who is dealing with cancer can go. “What we do is perhaps less of a reason to celebrate, but its existence is absolutely justified and very necessary,” says chairman Guy Strijbosch.
Because the lease on the previous building in the city expired, Sigrids Garden had to look for a new location. With a little help from the municipality of Coevorden, among others, it came about. Chairman Strijbosch is satisfied. “We have found a beautiful new place again.”
Sixteen years ago, Sigrids Garden was set up for people dealing with cancer. They may have the disease themselves or someone close to them may have been affected. Sigrid’s Garden was the greatest wish of Sigrid, who died at the age of 27. She herself had cancer and missed a place where fellow sufferers could meet each other. Her parents worked hard, says the chairman, to realize Sigrids Garden.
Volunteer Mini van der Kooi is regularly present to lend a listening ear to everyone who enters. “I had breast cancer in 2010. Tomorrow marks one year since our daughter died of cancer,” she says emotionally. “It’s all very intense, but that’s why I’m very happy that this is here.”
Van der Kooi himself also finds support from colleagues. “It is a very nice and safe place to tell your own story among colleagues. And also to be there for the guests, of course.”
The volunteers are happy with the new location. It is still being worked on, it is said during a tour, but the various rooms have already largely been furnished. “We always try to create a homely setting, not a hospital or clinical environment. Cozy with a TV and flowers,” says Strijbosch.
But there is also a yoga room and a wellness room, for example. “You have to deal with physical and mental complaints. In these rooms you can actually relax thanks to well-trained teachers and specialists.”
Although it is a major hurdle for some people to enter, Strijbosch notices that fellow sufferers are often relieved when they do. “Because they find recognition and a listening ear. And in that sense also a kind of peace. They realize that they are not alone. Together you are stronger.”