My name is Darlene, and I am blessed to be the "daughter" that Linda and Vince never had. Linda and Vince have been vendors at the Corner Farmers Market in Greensboro, NC since our market began over a decade ago. They are two of our "elders" who many look fondly to as parents, for love and wisdom. I became one of many who they would share their love with. Over this time, and with our shared passion of fresh fruit and nutrition, I came to know that was God sent for me at the ripe age of 55 and also for Linda and Vince who are in their seventies.

On March 15, 2025, Vince had called, and I got to the call just as he hung up, but then Linda's call came through and it was a call that no one wants to receive...that Linda had been in a car accident. You see Linda had been driving for a shared ride company to fill the income gaps that so many of us have to make ends meet. I got the location and went to the hospital to see for myself the seriousness of her injuries. In the back of my mind, I knew that, in addition to serious bodily injuries, the financial impact would hit hard her and Vince's everyday living expenses. As of today, Linda is looking at a long road of recovery. Along with back and nerve injuries, a brain bleed has been detected, and surgical consults are upcoming.

This unfortunate accident has hit them and their business really hard. Although they are "retired" they rely on their thriving Fruittickler business at the Corner Farmers Market to cover monthly expenses. This year they will lose a full season, peak season at that while Linda recovers from this accident. This unexpected loss of income, a totaled vehicle, medical bills and an impending and unanticipated relocation of their homes has put significant emotional, physical and financial strain on the couple.

Fruittickler (Linda) is one of the original vendors who helped build the Corner Market more than a decade ago. This market has fed our community and launched many new and local businesses, and our market mama has been with us every step of the way.

Through this go fund me, we hope to raise enough money to help them cover six months of lost income, a vehicle replacement, medical bills and the cost of moving.