Lee County florist earns exposure for bouquets and making a difference

The Petal Patch received and honored in this year’s “Best of the GulfShore,” which is by our partners at Gulfshore Life. Inside the Fort Myers flower shop, a woman works to not only make bouquets but to make a difference.

Renee Mason loves making flower arrangements. One of her favorite things about the job is that she rarely finds someone that’s “unhappy to get flowers.” She believes each bouquet brings brightness to everyone, including those going through dark times.

“I know it’s gonna make their day a little bit easier,” Mason said. “Like when you have cancer, you feel terrible. I’m passionate about it because I struggled with it myself.”

Mason was diagnosed with cancer over three years ago. She said working to open her flower shop on McGregor as she battled breast cancer was tough. But her community and her dream kept her going. She said it “gave her purpose.”

After completing her final round of chemotherapy, on April 24 — seven days later she opened the doors to the Petal Patch, so she could make a difference in the best way she knows how.

“We’re always collecting donations here,” Mason said. “We did as much as we could for the Bahamas.”

She has a passion for petals and actions that blossom into smiles.

Mason is currently collecting toys at the Petal Patch. Donations dropped off at her flower shop will go to children battling cancer and their families this holiday season.

Mason was nominated by readers like you for our inspiring people segment. Nominate a person that is inspiring our community by accessing this link.