The Marie Keating Foundation is set to unveil its 'Early Bird Catches the Worm' Garden at the opening of Bord Bia Bloom this week.
The garden is being designed and built by award-winning Monaghan-based creative designer Benny Magennis.
The Clontibret man is no stranger to Bord Bia Bloom, with this being his fourth garden design.
He won Silver at the event in 2022 for his 'Minion's' Garden in the Show Garden Concept category.
Continuing in his mission to design and create impactful concepts, this year's garden is a thoughtfully designed space, which serves as a reminder that through education and proactive measures, we can work towards a future with less fear surrounding cancer.
In a statement issued to Northern Sound, Benny explained why this garden is particularly meaningful; "The Marie Keating Foundation provides such vital support supports to those on a cancer journey, and this was at the forefront of my mind when designing and developing the garden. I wanted it to reflect the key messages around education and awareness, while also creating a space that fosters a sense of community.
"Like so many families in Ireland, my own has been deeply affected by cancer. I’ve witnessed first-hand how it impacts not only the individual but also their loved ones. That personal experience inspired me to design a space that highlights the importance of caring for one another, offering support, and finding strength and peace during difficult times.
"These themes are woven throughout the garden – from the birdhouse symbolising the importance of early detection, to the planting scheme that represents Ireland’s five most common cancers: breast, skin, lung, bowel, and prostate."
