Flower fan’s life to be celebrated with Remember Me Rose

The family of a much loved dad, husband, bampy and uncle from Caerphilly will be supporting City Hospice’s Forever Flowers campaign this summer.

Forever Flowers is an award-winning, annual campaign which invites supporters to remember cherished family members, friends, colleagues and loved ones with a unique and lasting tribute. The limited edition flowers will feature in a special display in the grounds of Cardiff Castle from Saturday 3 to Sunday 11 August.

This year’s choice of flower is a rose, symbolising love, affection and respect while also paying tribute to the charity which is marking its ruby anniversary this year.

Gemma Lang’s Remember Me Rose will celebrate the life of her father Paul Marcus Lang.

A kind, loving and funny person, Paul was a true friend to many and was always the first to help someone in need. He had many interests, from skittles to football, but he took particular pride in two of his biggest passions: gardening and his dogs.

Gemma said: “Dad’s working life began in electrical wholesale where he worked his way to the top before retraining and setting up his own business as a dog groomer. This business incorporated his true love: dogs. Dad loved and had owned dogs since he was a child and went on to show, breed and judge dogs to championship level.

“He also really loved flowers, especially his roses, and took great pride in them. We have a cherished doorbell recording of him tending to his plants on the day that he would go into hospital.”

Paul was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in early 2022 after experiencing some difficulties eating and drinking. He sadly passed away 15 weeks and four days following his diagnosis but his family ensured that he was surrounded by love in his final weeks.

Gemma said: “As a family we focused on capturing moments on camera and telling Dad how much we loved him. Dad and all who loved him have a lifetime of love and laughter. While we wanted more time, we have the memories of the most loved man we were able to call our own!”

While Paul did not receive care from City Hospice during his illness, Gemma had previously supported the charity. During the weeks following his passing, she received an email about Forever Flowers and decided to support the campaign in memory of her dad. This year marks the third year that Gemma and her family are taking part in Forever Flowers.

Gemma said: “As someone who loved flowers and was a keen fundraiser, Forever Flowers is the perfect tribute for Dad! Our sunflower and daisy sit in pride of place in the garden, and I have already ordered my Remember Me Rose this year.

“I look forward to receiving ‘that’ email every year, knowing that each flower helps someone facing the toughest time of their life whilst also leaving a lasting tribute to my dad who I love and miss so very much.”