After a career in tech that took her all over the world, Linda Sellheim retired in Dundee and found herself looking for local connection. She joined the Master Gardener program toward the end of the pandemic, hoping to learn and volunteer. What she found was a community — one that would become a source of friendship, learning and support as her husband faced a rare blood cancer diagnosis.
Photo credit: Debbie Warner
“The best part of being a Master Gardener volunteer has been meeting fellow gardeners with similar interests and making new friends.
One thing I’m most proud of is the community of learning we have created around our propagation group.
I applied to the program right after I retired, toward the end of the pandemic. I had not been in the area very long, and after coming off a career in tech with lots of travel, I realized I had friends all over the world, but not locally.
The friendships I’ve made through being a Master Gardener have helped me learn so much — not only about gardening, but about the community. Within our propagation group, we have started a book club where we read gardening novels. We go to local restaurants and wineries, celebrate holidays and events, and do seed exchanges. Those are just a handful of the things that have grown out of this group.
While I was taking the Master Gardener course in the first few months, my husband was diagnosed with a very rare blood cancer. Having the Master Gardener community there, and having a place to go to work and clear my mind, was a lifesaver.
I’ve always believed that in times of change, learning and volunteering can help you make a transition. You never know who you will connect with who can alter your life in a good way. My husband has been through a stem cell transplant, CAR-T therapy and some deadly emergencies, and my Master Gardener group has been there.
I think Master Gardener volunteers are needed now more than ever because of climate change, the need to help people make good decisions and the importance of growing food.”
P.S. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the OSU Extension Master Gardener Program — and early giving is now open for Dam Proud Day. If this program has shaped your life, your garden or your community, consider making a gift today to help support the next 50 years. We’re also collecting stories from current and past Master Gardener volunteers. Share your story with us: Beav.es/mgstory