SOQUEL, CA - When we heard of Melissa “Missy” McDill’s passing earlier this year, we knew that the produce industry had lost a tour de force. Her spirit and resilience, however, cannot be lost, as those within our community continue to honor her life. Most recently, the Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services—of which Missy was the longest-serving Board Member—announced a wing dedicated in her honor: The Missy McDill Center for Creative Healing.

“My mom always found ways to assist with the financial needs of Jacob’s Heart families, all while bringing them small moments of joy in the process,” McCoy Gurmin, her son, shared with me. “She was a strong believer in the power of art therapy to heal the emotional strains of cancer treatment for both patients and their family members, and helped to foster a culture of healing through creativity at Jacob's Heart."

To honor Missy's innumerable contributions, and her passion for the arts, Jacob's Heart Children's Cancer Support Services will be dedicating a healing and creativity wing in her name.

Unfortunately, I did not have a chance to meet Missy, but I think that this is a fitting tribute, suitable for a pioneer in produce marketing, branding, and packaging design.

“Our hope is that the new space will offer solace for Jacob's Heart families in times when they need it most, giving them an outlet to experience the healing power of art and creativity,” noted Lori Butterworth, Founder and Executive Director of Jacob’s Heart. "We will be expanding the Jacob’s Heart counseling and therapeutic arts programs with a focus on grief and loss. The center will also provide training for parents, health providers, and healing practitioners in the art and practice of caring for seriously ill and grieving children."

The family is thankful to everyone who has made a donation in Missy's name, and for their direct contributions to families in need. If you would like to make a donation yourself and continue Missy’s legacy, please visit the Jacob's Heart website.