It’s been 5 months now since the mass shooting in Las Vegas, and in honor of #FlashbackFriday, I thought we would flashback to the Random Acts of Kindness weeks and spotlight the Healing Garden here in Las Vegas. The story of how this came to be is nothing short of amazing, and it is a reminder each time I visit of the outpouring of love, kindness and care that made this garden what it is today.
In the hours and days that followed the Oct 1 tragedy, people near and far from Las Vegas were stunned and all searching for ways to reach out and show support to the victims, their families and the anyone else who was affected. Some were able to donate funds, while others stood in line for house to donate blood; others provided food and water to those in line, at the local hospitals, first responders and more. Others organized candlelight vigils, organized tribute runs and other gatherings where the local community could come together and share support for one another. One man, in 4 short days with the help of countless volunteers and businesses, turned his bar napkin sketch and an empty plot of land into a very special garden, complete with a memory wall, 58 trees, one for each life lost and in the center a tree of life surrounded by a Healing Heart wall.
It has transformed over the last 5 months, with visitors often leaving their own personal symbol of support and honor ranging from pictures, hand written notes, painted rocks or other art creations. The heart wall is covered in tiles that were pained by the victims’ families, and has now been painted red on top. The latest addition occurred a few weeks ago where 10,000 daffodils were planted. Hundreds of volunteers came out to help plant these one chilly Saturday morning. This Healing Garden continues to be a place where people from near and far go to remember and honor those who we lost that night, and those who were affected by this event. Truly an act of kindness that keeps on giving.
We would like to extend our sincerest gratitude for everyone who has contributed, and continues to contribute to this site, you are #VegasStrong
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