Let It Grow
By Tammy Thornton
You may have driven by a doctor’s office on busy Shore Road countless times without giving a thought to gardens or places to meditate. But if you took the tiny alley leading to the back entrance of Dr. Larry Lemieux’s office, you would have been instantly struck by a beautiful and peaceful garden, lovingly planted by the Somers Point chiropractor. Some gardens are planted for crops, others for bouquets, but this garden evolved as a loving tribute to his daughter, Kelli Lauren Lemieux.
Originally, the area behind the doctor’s office was a grass yard where he used to play ball with his dogs. But when his daughter tragically passed away in 2015, patients would bring him flowers and plants in her memory. Eventually, the good doctor got on his hands and knees and planted a special garden in her honor. In time, the garden evolved, and patients would bring gifts to add to the garden. Currently, the garden contains a pergola with seating, a pond with a gentle waterfall, and various areas for contemplation. Kelli’s ashes are also buried in a vault in the garden and were blessed by the priest.
Dr. Lemieux said that he wants people to enjoy the garden and feel the presence and energy of Kelli, who was “a kind, sweet person, who loved animals. She always wanted to be a mom and lived for her daughter, Ava.” Kelli also left behind her mother, Barbara, who was “an incredible mother,” according to Lemieux. She also had two sisters, Dr. Lemieux’s daughters, Emily and Amanda.
The doctor’s patients are very much a part of the garden. They will often have lunch, do yoga, or meditate in the garden. Like most gardens, it’s always being added to and changing. Patients bring plants or garden ornaments to share. This year a sprinkler system was installed. The doctor finds peace in working in the garden and thinking about his daughter. In the winter, he puts away the annual plants and stores the decorations for the season, ready to start again in spring. His garden has been featured in various garden tours and events held by the Green Thumb Garden Club of Somers Point.
