Heartwarming community collaboration creates dream garden for Gareth and Carina

In a heartening display of community spirit and friendship, local businessman Philip Hayes of PH Decking (composite decking specialists), joined forces with his friend Gerry McDonald from Westscapes Garden Concepts Ltd, to spearhead a remarkable garden makeover for Gareth Hayes.

Gareth’s life changed profoundly in 2021 when, after suffering a range of persistent eye problems, a diagnosis of an inoperable brain tumour was made by his medical team. Since then Gareth has fought a battle to defy the odds and live every moment to the full despite his failing health.

Philip, inspired by his desire to make life easier for his nephew Gareth, conceived the idea of constructing a beautiful garden room. He teamed up with Gerry, and the duo crafted a vision for Gareth’s dream garden retreat. Fuelled by their unwavering determination to bring joy to Gareth his wife Carina and their daughter Sienna, Philip and Gerry approached local suppliers, drawing on their longstanding relationships to secure donations for the project.

The result is a breathtaking garden oasis that exceeded all expectations, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Philip, Gerry, their dedicated teams, and a generous outpouring of support from the community.

A pivotal moment in the project came with the invaluable assistance of Lakeland Civil Engineering, whose swift site clearance work laid the foundation for the transformation. David and his team’s efficiency condensed what would have been days of labour into a mere three hours, providing the perfect blank canvas for the vision to unfold.

Then there was a Trojan effort from Tom Gahan, Robert Ryan, and David O’Callaghan to help turn this vision into reality.

The success of the project was further buoyed by the support of many generous suppliers. Kilmurray’s Hardware, Midland Cladding and Steel Services, Mullingar Hardware, Crow Sawmill, Clonee Sawmill, Tully Nurseries, Moyvalley Stone, Loughnane Concrete, and The Lighting Showroom showed kindness and generosity to propel the project to its goal of creating something truly special for Gareth and Carina.

“As we reflect on this remarkable journey, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who played a part in this uplifting story,” said Philip and Gerry. “Together, we have not only transformed a garden but this monumental effort touched the lives of Gareth, Carina, Sienna and their community in a truly meaningful way.”

Philip Hayes with his nephew Gareth Hayes in the new garden at Gareth and Carina’s house in Belmont, near Ferbane.