Join Ruby's Fight: Support Her Path to Healing

For decades, Ruby Wood has been a familiar face to those of us who have lived in Nelson County. Most people know her as Mama Ruby from Sunny Mountain Store, a place where she made countless memories and formed lasting connections with the community. Ruby first walked through the doors of Sunny Mountain as a cashier in the 70s, and by the 80s, she became the proud owner. For 25 years, she not only ran the store but made it a warm and welcoming space for all. Even after selling the business, Ruby continued to work for the following owners, always a loyal and hard-working presence.

But in November of 2024, Ruby's life changed dramatically. While working at the store, she suffered a fall that caused severe injury to her back. The pain was unbearable, and after extensive evaluation, Ruby underwent surgery on December 10th to repair a broken vertebrae. Despite her hopes for recovery, the pain never subsided, and by December 23rd, she was admitted to UVA for further treatment. On January 1st, she was transferred to Fairmont Nursing for rehab, where she worked to regain her strength.

However, during an appointment at UVA on January 23rd, it was discovered that her spine had broken again, below the area that had been repaired. Ruby underwent another extensive 10 hour surgery on January 27th to address the new injury, and she is now in Albemarle Rehab, working diligently to rebuild her strength and mobility. The road ahead remains uncertain, and we don’t know when Ruby will be able to return home.

Sadly, due to the nature of her injuries and the long recovery ahead, Ruby will never be able to return to work again. For someone who dedicated so much of her life to serving others, this is a heartbreaking reality.

We are asking for your support to help Ruby through this difficult time. All donations raised will go directly to covering her medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and any other expenses she will need as she recovers and adjusts to life at home. Ruby has always been there for her community, and now, it’s our turn to be there for her.

Please consider donating, sharing this campaign with others, and keeping Ruby in your thoughts and prayers as she continues her journey toward healing. Your support means the world to her, and to all of us who care for her deeply.

Thank you.