Hope and Healing Garden

Hope and Healing Garden Named in Recognition of Transformative $25 million Gift from Argyros Family

City of Hope Orange County received a transformative gift of $25 million from the Argyros family in September. The exciting news was announced by Julia Argyros at the Hope Gala September 10.

The announcement capped off an evening of celebration for the the new cancer center and the philanthropic community that has helped make City of Hope Orange County a reality.

The Argyros family's recent gift continues a decades-long history of generosity and support that helped shape City of Hope’s trajectory as a world-recognized leader in cancer research and treatment.

Now, in recognition of this transformational gift, the Argyros name will grace the healing garden at Orange County's most advanced comprehensive cancer center, extending a shared commitment to healing mind, body and spirit.

Improving the physical, emotional, social and psychological well-being of those with cancer has been a guiding principle in the design of the Hope and Healing Garden and the surrounding Celebration Plaza on the Orange County campus. Visitors can take a break from sitting with a loved one during treatment to walk the plaza, enjoy the sunshine, place a message of hope on our wishing tree and admire the healing garden.

“The gardens reflect our interest in integrative medicine practices that have not been part of standard therapies,” said Richard T. Lee, M.D., medical director of our Integrative Medicine Program, who is world-renowned for studies that combine standard medical practices with nonconventional therapies that include meditation, acupuncture and herbal medicine. “There is substantial evidence of the efficacy of these therapies, especially to help people with cancer deal with pain, fatigue, anxiety and other symptoms.”

Many shrubs, perennials desert plants and other greenery known for their potential healing properties were selected, including lavender, agaves, sage and peppermint. The campus’ largest tree is a California coastal live oak, which was used by local native-Americans for its potential medicinal value.

Designers of the garden took note of the many healing spaces on City of Hope’s main Duarte campus, including the stunning Argyros Family Garden of Hope. Julia Argyros recalls sitting in the serene space in Duarte, observing patients and families pause and reflect in a space that represents healing.

Commenting on her family’s recent gift to City of Hope Orange County, Julia Argyros said, "We are honored to be in the position to support City of Hope, which is saving lives and expanding access to its advanced cancer care. We believe it is our privilege to give back to the community. We hope that this gift helps people get the care they need and that everyone who walks through the healing gardens at the new cancer center is filled with peace and hope."