My mother died of cancer at the age of 53, when I was 21. I therefore have first hand experience of the difficulties people have coping with the feeling of helplessness and uncertainty that generally accompanies the disease. These days a lot more can be done for sufferers, and it is very possible that my mother would have enjoyed a longer period of remission after the cancer had been identified. She may even have been cured. In any event she would I am sure have very much benefited from the Eden Rose Coppice which is being created close to the Quay Theatre and the Water Meadows in Sudbury.
Babergh is supporting the project which involves the creation of a two and a half acre woodland site aimed at becoming a ‘sanctuary for people suffering from cancer or a terminal illness’. I went along to the official opening this morning to have a look and take some photographs. Despite the stir and fuss surrounding assembled dignitaries in full regalia, I was able to appreciate how lovely the woodland is. Light filters through the trees, traffic is barely audible, birds sing, and it is easy to imagine how someone feeling pretty low might have their spirits immeasurably raised by spending time here.
In addition to being of help to human beings, the wood will also be a haven for wildlife, forming a green buffer between Friars' Meadow and a new development of houses.
The area will be open to the public in 2009. It is being created by volunteers, who are doing a great deal of work to clear and plant the site with special shrubs and trees. Donations to the project can be made on www.withnature.org, and if you wish to volunteer information can be obtained by calling 01787 225524.
