The early days of spring are always special here at the Institute, because not only do we welcome a year of new growth, we get ready to celebrate another year in the life of our founder. Today, Charlotte Gerson turns 91! (or, as she might prefer us to say, today is the first anniversary of her 90th birthday).

Charlotte has inspired thousands of people across the world to begin their personal healing journeys, including many of us here at the Gerson Institute. My guess is that many of you have been inspired by her powerful work, too.

This week we’ve been overwhelmed with the number of greetings and birthday wishes that have come in. Hearing from you means a lot – not just to Charlotte but to all of us here at the Institute. It reminds us how important our work is. It reminds us that we are making a difference.

Last year, in celebration of Charlotte’s 90th birthday, we planted the Charlotte Gerson Legacy Orchard down at Wild Willow Farm.

This year, volunteers finished constructing the entryway to the orchard, designed by local architect and sustainable housing advocate Candace Vanderhoff.

This orchard of fruit trees was more than just a way of helping increase the amount of local organic produce. It was a symbol of Charlotte’s life and work, the reality that social change is brought about by determined people who keep educating and spreading the word and never give up. Change happens because of individuals like Charlotte and Dr. Max Gerson.

The first spring blossoms on the growing saplings are out, reminding us that our whole movement is entering a springtime. As more and more people come to realize the value of a holistic approach to healing, incredible opportunities are opening up for Gerson.

Thanks to Charlotte, the Gerson Therapy is still here, ready to blossom in this new spring. Thanks to you, we have the group of determined citizens needed to support these new opportunities.

Have you become a Gerson Person? Has Charlotte had an impact in your life? If so, please help strengthen her legacy.

By making a donation today in honor of Charlotte’s 91st birthday, you support our continued education and outreach efforts. You also make new projects like our upcoming Guide to Cost Saving and Fundraising for Gerson Patients possible.

To Charlotte, there is no greater gift than keeping the Gerson Therapy alive for future generations. We need your support to continue Charlotte’s work, realize her vision, and help others on the path to true healing.

Give Charlotte the perfect birthday gift by…

• Making a donation to the Gerson Institute or becoming a monthly donor.
• Educating a friend by sharing a copy of Charlotte’s book Healing the Gerson Way or sending them to our website.
• Taking time to replenish your body, by raising a glass of carrot-apple juice in Charlotte’s honor!
• Sending her a birthday message in the comments below

Lastly, enjoy this video we made for Charlotte’s birthday last year, featuring beautiful old home videos from the Gerson family, birthday wishes from fans and recovered patients across the world, and messages from our staff and volunteers here at the Institute!

“I am overwhelmed by the love and attention I have received for my birthday. There were more than 500 birthday wishes on Facebook and 6,000 friends who “liked” my photo and birthday greeting. Hundreds of e-mails came, too, and many birthday cards.

I would love to be able to thank each and every one of you, but of course that is impossible and so I take this occasion to tell you how I am moved and happy so many of you have received benefit from my work and hold me in such affection.”

Thank you.
-Charlotte Gerson

Wish Charlotte a happy birthday in the comments below!