A healing harvest: Vandalia Health Mon Preston Memorial Hospital joins initiative to support patients with fresh food

At Vandalia Health Mon Preston Memorial Hospital, the fight against cancer now includes a fresh approach — partnering with a local farm through the Growing Hope initiative to provide patients and their families with nourishing, fresh produce.

Through this partnership, the oncology team at Mon Preston Memorial Hospital currently serves approximately 150 to 200 patients and families each month, distributing free bags of seasonal fruits and vegetables that support healing and well-being during treatment.

The produce is grown and supplied by Random Rabbit LLC in Flemington, a farm owned and operated by Audra O’Dell, whose commitment to sustainable farming and community wellness brings a personal connection to every delivery.

"I love providing market outlets for farmers while providing clean and healthy food for those who need it most,” O’Dell said. “This program is absolutely wonderful. It helps build community in so many ways."

In addition to the produce, patients receive easy-to-follow recipes that highlight the items in each bag, helping families prepare balanced meals using ingredients that are nourishing, affordable and in season.

"[This program] adds to the nutrition that patients need that they can't afford,” said Bonnie Wegman, a patient. “We are very grateful and thankful for them and enjoy them immensely."

The Growing Hope initiative is a project of the West Virginia Cancer Control Collaborative Partnership and the Mountains of Hope Cancer Coalition, which work statewide to reduce cancer incidence and improve outcomes through prevention, early detection and supportive care.

"This program is more than just a bag of vegetables; it is a box of hope. Providing fresh healthy food helps our patients feel supported not just medically but emotionally and physically. It is a reminder that they are not alone in their journey,” said Amy Goodwin, Oncology Nurse Coordinator, Mon Preston Memorial Hospital.

Participation in Growing Hope reflects Mon Preston Memorial Hospital’s commitment to whole-person cancer care, addressing the physical, emotional and social needs of patients throughout their journey.

For more information about cancer care at Mon Preston Memorial Hospital or its community wellness programs, visit MonHealth.com/Preston-Memorial.