Poppy, an 11-year-old cat, was rescued from a local shelter after being abandoned in the freezing cold, where she suffered frostbite on her paws. Despite being safe at the shelter, she was initially overlooked by potential adopters until Aly decided to foster her. "I fell in love instantly and made it official — she was mine," Aly told The Dodo.
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However, just a month later, Poppy was diagnosed with aggressive cancer, requiring expensive surgery. In response to the diagnosis, Aly worked diligently to raise funds for the treatment, expressing her fears during that challenging time: "We plunged from peak joy to absolute fear." Throughout the ordeal, Aly and Poppy spent days sitting outside in the yard, where Poppy seemed eager for visitors to stop by and pet her.
After Poppy successfully overcame cancer, Aly wanted to create something special to honor her recovery. Remembering Poppy's enjoyment of the outdoors, Aly designed a community rock garden. Painting the rocks became a therapeutic process for her, and the garden was intended to attract passersby to connect with Poppy. Initially, the small garden attracted no visitors.
However, after Aly shared their story online, people began sending decorated rocks to help expand the garden. "Suddenly, neighbors started stopping, picking up rocks and taking time to love on Poppy," Aly recounted. The garden quickly flourished, turning into a source of joy during a difficult time in their lives.
Now, the garden has grown so large that Aly thinks an expansion might be necessary. Poppy enjoys basking in the sun near the colorful rocks, awaiting new visitors. The garden has become a symbol of joy and community spirit following her battle with cancer. For those who wish to contribute to Poppy's rock garden, donations can be sent to PO Box 21004 LEDUC RPO LEDUC DOWNTOWN, AB, T9E 6R4 Canada.