Melanie Bondera of Kanalani Ohana Farm

The 566th recipient is Melanie Bondera of Kanalani Ohana Farm in Captain Cook, HI. Melanie writes:

What self-care and well-being mean to me as a farmer: “Between the stressors of trying to make it as a small farm, the current administration's dismantling of the USDA and our global economy, as well as as our aging bodies (57 & 58 years old - 24 years farming), self care is necessary to maintain physical and mental health. I do tai chi every morning, see a therapist for a walking session weekly, get chiropractic care when my joints go out, and swim in the ocean weekly. We play tennis together on Sundays. However, between aging and hyper mobile joint disorder in the family, what we really need is a trainer and some focused weight lifting. Sounds funny for a farmer, as we are lifting everyday, but farm work can be repetitive strain injuries instead of strengthening.”

How I might use this $250 self-care award: ”We would use this $250 to start weight lifting and exercise sessions together with a trainer and then prioritize continuing it. We have not begun this due to the sticker price.” 

Most important self-care needs that contribute to my well-being as a farmer: "Strong muscles for a strong body to work outside on the farm and prevent injury as we age.”

#realfarmercare