Our Journey

Hello friends, family and community. While I never imagined creating a gofundme, my partner Kathleen and I are currently facing incredibly difficult circumstances. Two years ago Kathleen was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer and since then we have both been put to the test many times. We ride the wave daily knowing that health can change in an instant, as it has many times for us. We are no strangers to chemo, radiation, weekly appointments, and hospitalizations. During that time I have struggled to focus and remain consistent with my work as I assumed the role of full-time caretaker for Kathleen. Kathleen is now entering a new chapter in her care and has transitioned to hospice at home.

Recently while working alone performing hay field maintenance, I fell from my tractor when doing a repair and sustained multiple injuries including a concussion that caused me to lose consciousness and a fractured scapula. Fortunately I was able to call 911 and was brought to a hospital by ambulance for treatment. This event has limited my mobility and requires me to be on “light duty” for the next 10-12 weeks in order to properly heal.

Kathleen has made many connections over the years living in Petersham and working at NOFA and UMASS. During her cancer illness and treatment, Kathleen has been employed at a reduced status at the UMASS Amherst Center of Agriculture Food and Environment. Many of you know me through social media but for those of you who don’t, I live in a rural area of Central Massachusetts and wear many hats within my community. I am the Forest and Shade Tree Committee Chair and a longtime member of the Petersham Conservation Commission. For many years I have run my own farming business, Farm and Field Landworks, doing haying, logging and land management as well as growing food. Right now life is hitting us hard and we find ourselves in need of support from our community. I am asking for contributions to the gofundme to sustain us through the persistent obstacles that we are currently navigating. Thank you for everyone’s generosity, both past and present, it is truly appreciated. Sincerely, David and Kathleen