Something remarkable has been growing at the Polytrauma Transitional Rehabilitation Program (PTRP) facility here in San Antonio, not just from the soil, but within the hearts of Veterans, Service Members, staff, and volunteers. The healing garden, a labor of love and a symbol of resilience, has been steadily blooming. What started as an idea has blossomed into a sanctuary for recovery, reflection, and connection.  

From Vision to Vibrancy

The idea for the garden took root in August 2022, with hands-on work beginning in June 2023. It took three weeks just to excavate the land, and what was once a space marked only by Texas sage, roses, and a simple sidewalk has now transformed into a lush and purposeful healing space.  

Craig Caya, Program Director at PTRP, had dreamed of a new garden. With support from Soldiers’ Angels and dedicated individuals like Pat Jopling – who holds a master’s in education with an emphasis in agriculture and a bachelor’s in agronomy – that dream has blossomed into reality. Soldiers’ Angels volunteers, Boy Scouts, Joeris General Contractors, the National Charity League, staff, and patients all came together to make it happen. Truly, it’s been a group effort every step of the way. 

A Garden with Purpose

Today, the garden is home to 19 different herbs, a few vegetables, and flowers that welcome pollinators. Each plant offers not only beauty but also healing properties. Herbs like elderberry, rosemary, holy basil, and mullein support respiratory health, digestion, and pain relief. Garlic serves as a natural pest deterrent when planted strategically

Even the layout is intentional. Raised beds line the walkways, offering easy access for residents who use wheelchairs. Every inch of the garden fosters healing—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Therapy in Every Leaf

PTRP is one of only five facilities of its kind in the country, serving Veterans and Service Members recovering from traumatic brain injuries and polytrauma. The 3–5 week inpatient program focuses on helping individuals regain their independence, and now the garden has become a part of that journey. 

Residents engage with the garden in ways that are deeply personal. Some participate in therapy sessions amidst the plants, while others simply walk, talk, and reflect. Painted rocks and seashells, lovingly placed throughout by Annie Scheel, offer small moments of joy and surprise. These treasures are often moved and rediscovered, creating a quiet, ongoing interaction with the space and with others. 

One of the garden’s most peaceful features is the meditation labyrinth. Residents often incorporate the calming path into their daily routine—walking in silence, praying, or using the time to simply breathe. Labyrinths are known to help quiet the mind and reduce anxiety, offering a gentle space for mindfulness and reflection. 

Herbalist and Soldiers’ Angels Advisory Council member, Juli Coen, has played a pivotal role in the garden’s journey. She hosts hands-on classes where patients, staff, and volunteers learn how to prepare herbal teas and discover the unique wellness benefits of each plant. Her sessions offer more than education, they create space for connection, conversation, and healing 

Chris Gillis, a physical therapist and the garden’s day-to-day manager, has witnessed these transformations firsthand. “One gentleman who was going through a lot began spending time in the garden daily,” he shared.  “The garden gives residents an opportunity to heal in their own way.” 

Growing Together 

The garden continues to grow—not just in size but in impact. A newly planted bed now surrounds the meditation labyrinth, and thanks to Joeris General Contractors and help from the Boy Scouts, a beautiful pergola provides welcome shade. A mini orchard and sitting area will join the pergola in the future once irrigation is complete.

Get Involved

This garden thrives because of community, and we’d love for you to be part of it. Whether it’s watering plants (many need daily attention), pulling weeds, or clearing paths, every hand makes a difference. If you’d like to be part of the garden’s next chapter, we’d love to have you join us. 

Spring Planting Day is scheduled for May 10, 2025—a perfect time to lend a hand, get your hands in the dirt, and help plant seeds of healing. 

Note – Many of the seeds come from Pat Jopling and Julie Coen themselves, gathered from farmer’s markets. If you’d like to bring a plant or seeds to share, please reach out to Pat before doing so. 

About the Author

Dallas Green served in the U.S. Air Force for 5 years. She began her journey with Soldiers’ Angels as a SkillBridge Marketing Intern and now continues to support their mission as a Veteran Intern while pursuing her bachelor’s degree through Arizona State University. 

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