Marcia Forrest
Farmer
“Making “Be Kind” signs has been one of my greatest accomplishments…It is such fun seeing the signs in people’s yards, on houses, in restaurants — they are everywhere! I love that project because it’s a great contribution to the Richmond area and beyond.”
photo by Scott Elmquist
What organizations and programs are you involved with in the Richmond community?
“Full Pocket Farm, Dominion Day Support, Embrace Bible Study”
Are you employed or in school? If yes, where?
“I attend Full Pocket Farm and Dominion Day Support.”
How are you capable – what things do you do best?
“The work I do at Full Pocket Farm is where my capabilities show best. I am good at any task that they need done, and I’m especially good at making pottery. Tending to the plants, animals, and pulling weeds are also part of my job. The best part is planning activities. That includes selling at farmers markets, picnics and outings, and holiday parties.
Making “Be Kind” signs has been one of my greatest accomplishments. I feel like I have painted a million, but it is probably closer to 100. It is such fun seeing the signs in people’s yards, on houses, in restaurants, at the vet -- they are everywhere! I love that project because it’s a great contribution to the Richmond area and beyond.
Before the Covid-19 shutdown I volunteered at the Richmond SPCA.There I did laundry, walked dogs and played with kittens. It was fun helping the animals.
My best strength is helping others when they need it. Sometimes a smile and a pat on the back make all the difference.”
What do you want people to know about you?
“When I was a child, I was taught that even though I may not be the smartest person in the room, I can ALWAYS be the kindest. I practice that every day.
As a baby I had a rare brain tumor. It was removed by surgery when I was 4. I spent months in a hospital, then went to NIH for more treatment.
Years of epilepsy from the tumor have left me impaired, and it is hard for me to get thoughts together during conversation. An implanted vagul stimulator has helped control the seizures, but it is still takes time for me to gather thoughts and reply to questions or requests sometimes.
For 17 years I have lived in a group home named Waldbauer, run by HopeTree Family Services. It is a loving, caring place and I have thrived from being there. I love my housemates and the people who support us. They are really special people.
I have a sister, Melissa and a brother, Mark. I am the youngest and because I was sick so much and needed to be at the hospital, they lost a lot of their childhood. They love me even more because of it and it has made us all better people. We are close today.
I love to laugh! My favorite color is orange.
If you could plan the perfect day, where would you go?
“My perfect day would include work! I love being at Full Pocket with all the other farmers. After I would do a little shopping, then have dinner with the members of my big family.”
What do you like best about living in the Richmond area?
“I’ve never lived any place else! It’s beautiful. My home is secluded and wooded and has space for outdoor activities, same as my mom’s. The classes and parties at Hanover Parks and Rec. are the best and I have been lucky enough to go to camp with the Friends For Life group. The whole Richmond area has lots of good restaurants, I like going out to eat!”
What goals do you have for the future?
“I would like to have a paying job, somehow helping others. Being able to live independently would be wonderful, but I would need a roommate. I do not like being alone.
Even if nothing in my life changes, I am happy and have an awesome life!”