Brenda Brieden

In late 2019, Brenda heard about Growing Kindness in passing and immediately knew this project would be a great fit for her hospital rooftop garden. Little did she know, the project would create a community of like minded volunteers, connect strangers in unique ways, and provide opportunities to connect with patients at their most vulnerable moments.

Knowing nothing about flower farming and very little about gardening, Brenda immersed herself in this new endeavor. Growing up on a farm in Illinois, she was reminded of many parallels including hard work, patience, watching the weather, and the joy of harvest. The garden provided a much needed respite from hospital work during COVID, and in subsequent seasons, a deeper understanding about time, care, and the human connection. She is a Pediatric ICU nurse by trade, turned hospital operations manager. Brenda lives with her family and yellow labrador in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan.