Flower Deliveries Lift Spirits of Des Moines Cancer Patients

Local flower farm owner donates bouquets to brighten days of those battling cancer

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A local flower farm owner in Des Moines, Catherine Schut, has been regularly delivering bouquets of flowers to the John Stoddard Cancer Center to surprise and uplift cancer patients like Meddy Paulus. Paulus, a 45-year-old breast cancer patient, says the kind gestures have been a bright spot during her difficult cancer journey.

Why it matters

Acts of kindness and community support can make a meaningful difference for those facing serious health challenges like cancer. The flower deliveries provide a morale boost and reminder that they are not alone in their fight.

The details

Schut, who owns the Hive and Petal flower farm, often drops off 40 or more bouquets at the cancer center to distribute to patients. Paulus, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025 after a routine mammogram, says the surprise flowers have been a welcome bright spot during her tough cancer treatment.

  • Paulus was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2025.
  • Schut has been regularly delivering flower bouquets to the cancer center.

The players

Catherine Schut

Owner of Hive and Petal flower farm who donates bouquets to the John Stoddard Cancer Center.

Meddy Paulus

45-year-old breast cancer patient who has received the surprise flower deliveries and says they have lifted her spirits during her difficult cancer journey.

John Stoddard Cancer Center

Cancer treatment facility in Des Moines where Schut delivers the flower bouquets for patients.

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What they’re saying

“This was such a shock and a very pleasant surprise.”

— Meddy Paulus, Cancer patient (KCCI)

“Since I have gone on this journey and continue to go on it, I am just a huge advocate of changing the narrative for cancer patients.”

— Meddy Paulus, Cancer patient (KCCI)

“It was a really great way to just kind of lift the spirits.”

— Meddy Paulus, Cancer patient (KCCI)

What’s next

The cancer center plans to continue working with local businesses and community members to provide uplifting experiences for patients throughout their treatment.

The takeaway

Small acts of kindness, like surprise flower deliveries, can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing serious health challenges. The flower donations demonstrate the power of community support to lift spirits and provide encouragement during difficult times.