
Sarah Frederick
Chairperson
My name is Sarah Frederick, and I’m honored to serve as the Chairperson of Healing Seed VA. I’m a proud wife, mother, and lifelong resident of the Fredericksburg area.
My relationship with cannabis began in high school, where I first experimented recreationally. But it wasn’t until I received my second cancer diagnosis at age 41 that I truly discovered the healing potential of this powerful plant. Choosing cannabis over traditional treatment was both life-changing and life-saving.
Today, I use cannabis daily to manage pain, stress, neuropathy, and sleep—and yes, I still enjoy it recreationally. It continues to improve my quality of life in ways I never imagined.
In 2020, my husband Jay, our dear friends Keith and Travis, and I launched Whole Greens VA, a retail store located in Spotsylvania, VA. We started with a vintage school bus, spreading awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding responsible cannabis use. Whole Greens VA is the proud legacy sponsor of Healing Seed VA, and we remain committed to offering high-quality products backed by education and guidance to support every customer’s journey.
As Chairperson of Healing Seed VA, it is my mission to educate and break the stigma around cannabis use. By advocating, educating, and sharing my personal story, I hope to promote a deeper understanding of the power of this plant and its potential to heal and transform lives.
Through Healing Seed VA, I am deeply committed to empowering others with knowledge, creating safe spaces for discussion, and uplifting our community through Support, Elevated Education, and Diversity (SEED). I truly believe in the transformative power of cannabis—and I’m dedicated to helping others discover hope, healing, and connection through it.
Heidi Dodson
Co-Chairperson / Registered Agent
My name is Heidi, and I’m a proud mom of four and grandma of two. I started using cannabis in 2019, and it completely changed my life. At the time, I was struggling with anxiety and depression and found myself relying on multiple medications just to get through the day.
Cannabis gave me the relief I had been searching for—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It helped me reduce my dependence on prescription meds and find a more natural, balanced way to manage my well-being.
Now, I use my experience to speak openly about the healing power of this plant. I believe in living authentically and choosing what works best for me. My journey with cannabis is about growth, peace, and taking my power back—and I hope it inspires others to explore their own path to healing.


Jenn Burton
Vice Chairperson
Hello! I’m Jenn Burton, a dedicated board member of Healing Seed of VA and a passionate local real estate agent at Jenn Burton Homes. At 47 years old, I’ve embraced life’s challenges and joys, and I’m excited to share my journey with you.
As a mother of five, family is at the heart of everything I do. Balancing the demands of motherhood with my career has taught me resilience and the importance of self-care. For me, that self-care includes using cannabis to manage my arthritis and severe anxiety. I didn’t discover the benefits of cannabis until I was 43, but it has truly transformed my life. It has provided me with the relief I needed, allowing me to focus on building my real estate company and being present for my family.
I am deeply committed to serving my community and believe that everyone deserves a safe and supportive environment. I work closely with several nonprofits that focus on housing issues and support for veterans, striving to make a positive impact in the lives of those around me. I firmly believe in the power of cannabis, both for medical and recreational use. It has not only improved my quality of life but has also empowered me to pursue my passions and serve my community.
When I’m not working or spending time with my family, I love to embark on new adventures with friends and create lasting memories. Life is an incredible journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences with others. Together, let’s continue to break down the stigma surrounding cannabis and promote its positive impact on our lives.
I look forward to connecting with you as we work towards a healthier, more understanding community!
Christine Ellison
Treasurer
I’m a proud mom of two spirited teenagers and a loving wife of 20 years, navigating the beautiful chaos of life with a sense of humor. Our two dogs add even more love and laughter to our household, making every day a new adventure.
As a working professional, I’ve honed my skills in communication, problem-solving, and collaboration, all of which I apply to my commitment to Healing Seed VA. My passion for breaking the stigma around cannabis use stems from a strong belief in its benefits and the importance of open dialogue. I’m dedicated to fostering understanding and acceptance, advocating for an informed approach that highlights the positive aspects of cannabis.
In my role of Treasurer, I aim to harness my infectious energy and personal experiences to create positive change and promote engaging discussions within our community. I believe that by sharing stories, we can challenge misconceptions and build bridges of understanding. Together, we can create a supportive environment where everyone feels empowered to express themselves authentically.
I look forward to upholding our nonprofit’s vision to cultivate a safe, informed and inclusive community through elevated education, responsible use and secure storage, fostering growth, diversity and wellbeing.


Kimberly Swarthout
Director of Sponsorship
I am Kimberly Swarthout, Healing Seed’s Director of Sponsorship, and also a dedicated wife and proud mother of two incredible teenagers. As a passionate cannabis educator and cultivator, I am deeply committed to sharing knowledge about the many benefits of this powerful plant. I enjoy watching this plant grow from a seed and believe in its ability to support emotional well-being, spiritual growth, and overall health. Nothing is better than sharing a joint and healing from the day with loved ones. With a heart for community and a love of learning, I strive to empower others through education, advocacy, and a higher approach to wellness.
Patricia Black
Secretary
Originally from Alabama, Patricia has proudly called Virginia home since 1986. She is a devoted wife, mother, and passionate advocate for breaking the stigma around cannabis use. Her personal journey with cannabis is deeply inspiring — what began as a youthful exploration turned into a powerful path toward healing.
After years of relying on prescription medications, Patricia made the courageous decision to reclaim her health naturally. Through dedicated research and a return to cannabis, she found true freedom from pain, stress, and anxiety. Patricia now embraces a holistic approach to wellness, even creating her own edibles to support her journey.
Cannabis didn’t just change Patricia’s life — it saved it. Today, she is committed to helping others discover the healing power of the plant and empowering them to take charge of their well-being.
