I’m not just growing food, I’m growing the people that eat the food.

I believe that when our community eats healthy, nutritious foods, we will be healthy, more productive and economically better off.   I truly believe that what I do has a penetrating impact on the well being of my community, and my country.   So I can’t stop.   Besides that I love the work, the fresh air, the smell of wet dirt on a cold spring morning, it is my passion.

In 2013 I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.   This has presented some challenges for my farming career.   But it has also brought unity and community to my farm as well.

 

Community 

Now I am more willing to ask for help from the community through our Community Farm Days and CSA volunteer hours here at Goodness Grows.   I never realized how many people actually want to help on the farm until I invited them to come out!

 

 

AgrAbility PA

I have also learned how to adapt to having RA through the AgrAbility Program.   Through AgrAbility PA, I have learned more about assistive technology that I can use to reduce strain on my hands and hips.

AgrAbility connected me with occupational therapists to understand how I can improve the safety and design of my daily tasks to prevent further injury.   With financial help of Occupational Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR), I was provided with equipment that reduces stress on my joints, preventing further injury.

Farming is still hard work.   Ultimately when I question if what I’m doing is the right thing, I am reminded by my customers, my community, just how much they value what I do.   I hope to be able to keep going for many years to come.

If you know a farmer that is struggling to complete their daily tasks, please let them know that help is available.