Community Corner

Owner of Water Fresh Farm Supports Against the Tide Event

Owner of Water Fresh Farm in Hopkinton, Jeff Barton, will be generously handing out his delicious, homemade, whole-grain muffins at the Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition’s (MBCC) Against the Tide event in Hopkinton on June 21. MBCC’s 22nd annual Metro-Boston Against the Tide swim, walk, run, and/or kayak event will be held at DCR’s Hopkinton State Park in Hopkinton, MA on June 21st, and the 15th annual Cape Cod Against the Tide event will be held at DCR’s Nickerson State Park in Brewster, on Aug. 16. 

Last year at the 2013 Hopkinton Against the Tide event, Barton was given an award of appreciation in honor and in memory of his lovely wife, Nancy Barton. Nancy passed away three and a half years ago after a 10-year battle with breast cancer. She was diagnosed at the young age of 37, yet faced the horrible disease with inspiring energy and strength. Through her battle, Nancy continued to touch the lives of everyone around her, including her two daughters, who were just 8 and 6 years old at the time. 

Nancy used to always say, “Your biology becomes your biography.” This inspired Jeff to strive daily to provide a better and safer way to live and eat for his customers. Water Fresh Farm baked goods are made from whole-grain flour that is grown and milled locally in Massachusetts. They also use pure cane sugar, a healthier alternative to refined sugars. Water Fresh Farm grows pesticide-free fruits and vegetables year round, as well. The goal of Fresh Water Farm is to nourish its customers with both body and soul, to touch people, and to make a difference in peoples lives, no matter how small. 

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“Anything that can help individuals and families from having to go through this is a good thing,” says Jeff. “Breast cancer impacts the entire family. Preventing it is better than fighting it. 

“I was deeply touched when I spoke to Jeff,” says Cheryl Osimo, Executive Director of MBCC. “Here is a businessman willing to take a full morning out of his workweek to come to the Against the Tide event to personally help with breast cancer prevention. It touches my heart that Jeff can share himself and his business to change the legacy of breast cancer for future generations.” 

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Currently, MBCC is the only breast cancer organization, locally or nationally, that focuses on breast cancer prevention. The statewide Against the Tide events generate funds towards this goal and MBCC’s work in community education, research advocacy, and public policy change. The morning events consist of a 1-mile swim, 2-mile kayak, 3-mile walk, 5K run, and 10K run. Participants may choose one or more of the activities in any combination. There will also be a “Splash and Dash” Aquathlon option where participants first "splash" in the competitive 1-mile swim and then, "dash" in the competitive 5K or 10K run. Each year, this family-friendly event brings individuals from all demographics and all abilities together with one goal in mind: breast cancer prevention. 

MBCC is inviting people throughout Massachusetts to register for one or both of the events at mbcc.org/swim or by calling 617-376-6222. Those who cannot attend are invited to make a pledge to a registered participant or existing team at firstgiving.com/mbcc


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