PERKASI, Pa. (CBS) — To conclude Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting a surgeon who runs a farm in upper Bucks County and helps cancer patients recover. This is a 40-acre farm called a living laboratory for cancer patients, aimed at finding health in nature.
It is the brainchild of a doctor with a special mission.
“I’m a city girl. I grew up in Mount Airy,” said Dr. Monique Gary of Grandview. “We didn’t learn the lessons of gardening or nutrition or even herbal medicine, but it was an experience and a journey.”
And what an incredible journey it has been for Gary, who runs and owns Still Rise Farm in Perkasie.
“I literally have a brown thumb, but I’m not going to let that stop me,” Gary said.
She’s no stranger to breaking down barriers, and Dr. Moe, as she’s known, is a breast surgeon and medical director of Grand View Health’s cancer program.
“When you look at the fact that less than 2% of all oncologists are people of color, I think some barriers are being broken down,” Gary said. “And if you look at agriculture, agriculture has historically excluded Black people.”
For her, it’s about inclusion and including nature as an important part of health. Her farm is a place where patients become part of nature.
“We call it experiential learning. It’s like an incubator farm where people have the opportunity to come out and really experience different aspects of health,” Gary said.
Mona Gold, 72, was diagnosed with breast cancer almost three years ago. Working on her farm has been a big part of her recovery, she said.
“Anytime I’m in the garden or outside, I feel good and healthy,” Gold said.
Gary said the 40-acre farm is about to explode with spring and summer bounty.
“We grow blueberries, raspberries and blackberries, and they contain medicinal properties. They have antioxidant properties that remove damaged cells,” Gary said. “Green leafy vegetables, dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and chard can help increase trace minerals in your body, which can help promote healing.”
From the operating room to the farm, Gary is committed to building healthy communities.
Stephanie Stahl
