Lush waterfalls, spectacular ponds, musical waterfalls, fish and wildlife.

All this and more will be on offer at 30 properties across Hamilton July 10 and 11, for the Pond Tour for the Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice.

Stops on the self-guided route  will be open to visitors from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on both days, with participating gardens in Ancaster, Waterdown, Millgrove, Hamilton Mountain, Stoney Creek, Haldimand, Grimsby and Hamilton. Participants can simply enjoy the exquisite scenery, while gardeners can scout some inventive ideas for their own properties.

The tour passport is offered at $25 for adults, and all proceeds support the palliative care facility on Stone Church Road, which opened its doors to residents in 2007.

The inspiration for the Pond Tour for the Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice came from the personal experience of the event chair.

“My sister Jean loved gardening and nature, and she loved the pond we had built on our property,” noted Debbie Sperling, whose Old York Road property will be open to guests on the tour. “After she was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer last year, she would visit us as often as possible. I treasured the times I watched her pain and tension disappear as she sat pondering.“

In July of last year, Sperling toured the Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice with her sister.

“She was nervous at first,” recalled Sperling. “But like all those times we sat looking over the pond, her anxiety melted away as she took in the beauty of the home and the smiling compassion of the staff.  She was so impressed with the gardens and particularly fond of the pond and waterfall.”

Within minutes, Jean decided to spend her final weeks there.  

She passed away in September 2009.

“Our family was blessed to be cradled by the Hospice during her final weeks,” said Sperling. “The Pond Tour for the Hospice is our way of supporting this treasure in our community, while honouring Jean’s life.”

Tour passports are available at several retail outlets, including Connon Nurseries in Waterdown, Harper’s Garden Centre in Ancaster, Maxview Water Gardens in Brantford, The Potting Shed in Dunnville and Decor On A Dime in Hamilton. They can also be obtained by calling Jean Waite at The Bob Kemp Hospice, 905-387-2448 Ext: 2204.

Participants are reminded to keep their passport after the tour, as there will be a draw for prizes on Monday, July 12.

Sponsors have provided an array of goodies, such as an Aquascape MicroPond Kit, a 2900 gallon pond pump, overnight stays at local attractions, gift certificates and more.

For complete details on the Pond Tour for the Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice, visit online at www.pondtourforthe hospice.ca.