As we are all aware, sometimes individuals who have always put forth special efforts in helping others come to a time when they themselves truly need the assistance and support of others. That is what Mark Sears, a 70-year-old Master Cabinet Maker from Redwood, NY, has come to experience during the past several months. A truly artistic craftsman, Mark began his professional career at the Aeolian America Piano Factory in East Rochester, NY. His employment in the building trades led him to managing a special woodworking shop for the Purcell Construction Company in Watertown, NY. While with the Purcell Company, Mark coordinated the installation of a new steeple and clock in the powerhouse for their Boldt Castle Project, a St. Lawrence River landmark and tourist attraction in the Thousand Islands region of New York State.

https://www.boldtcastle.com/visitorinfo/

Mark Sears has successfully run his personal wood crafting business, Creations in Wood, since 1976. His family-owned business has also allowed him to participate in the major renovation of the historic library at Boldt Castle on Heart Island. This called for hand carving, refinishing, and restoration needs for the entire room, which had been constructed in the early 1900s.

https://www.rusticcreationsinwood.com/

Mark has coached youth participating in the Odyssey of the Mind at Indian River Central School District. He is a Master Black Belt Instructor of American Kang Duk Won Karate, an Adjunct Professor at Jefferson Community College SUNY for Self-Defense & Personal Safety Courses, and a rustic furniture-making teacher for Thousand Islands Arts Center, Clayton, NY. Mark is a 6th-degree Master Black Belt who has studied the Martial Arts and served as an Instructor of American Kang Duk Won Karate for 47 years.

http://americankangdukwon.org/akdwhome.html

Mark was diagnosed with Stage Two breast cancer earlier this year and recently had to undergo a mastectomy. Although he does receive Social Security, he has attempted to maintain some of his demanding work routines to add extra income for weekly and monthly bills that must be promptly addressed. The operation, unfortunately, has restricted all his regular types of woodworking projects. Mark has found his recovery to be much slower than was anticipated.

Mortgage, utilities, and everyday living costs cannot be met merely by the Social Security that both he and his wife collect. It has been estimated there is a need for $10,000 to cover expenses not met by their current personal income.

Mark and his wife, Dale, extend their heartfelt thanks to those who have already helped in recent weeks. To each of you who may share some assistance in the days to come, please know your support will be greatly appreciated and recognized as a blessing from a new and distant friend!