In Unicoi County, Tennessee, Angelica Markland, proprietor of Artistic Icing, designs jewelry using common household items, including empty Coca-Cola bottles. The Apple Festival has consistently been a source of additional income for her; however, due to a recent cancer diagnosis, there have been significant changes this year.

Markland recently learned she had cancer.

“I discovered a lump in late fall, and since I usually have sinus issues, I assumed that was the cause,” Angelica explained. “It’s been difficult to identify my specific type of cancer. They’re still conducting biopsies at the Mayo Clinic, but it’s a variation of head and neck cancer.”

Attending this year’s festival alongside her are a few people Markland refers to as her “sisters,” including Monica Bennett.

“When she realized she wouldn’t be able to participate, we decided to take action,” Bennett stated. “We committed to getting her down there, setting up her booth, and selling her jewelry to ensure she has funds for medical bills and other expenses she might need.”

Due to Markland’s cancer, her ability to make jewelry has unfortunately slowed down.

“As an artisan, losing the use of my hands would be devastating,” Markland expressed. “Jewelry making involves using pliers all day. The tips of my fingers are sore and frequently numb, as are my toes. These are some of the side effects I’m experiencing.”

On the first day of the Apple Festival, the Town of Erwin stepped up for Markland.

“If someone bought a $14 pair of earrings and paid with a $20 bill, they would often say, ‘Keep the change, this is for Angelica.’ Similarly, if they bought a $25 t-shirt and paid with a $100 bill, they’d insist on donating the difference,” Bennett explained.

Bennett said she is proud of the way her “sister” has handled her cancer diagnosis.

“I have always admired her character, but watching her navigate her cancer journey with such grace and humility has been astonishing. I wish for her to know how incredibly proud I am of her and how deeply I care for her,” Bennett expressed to Markland.

Markland said their friendship helps keep her and her small business going.

“This would not even have been possible without them. I know Monica was down there at 6:30 [Friday] morning putting jewelry out, her and Peyton and Tosha, and I can’t thank them enough. I tell them I don’t know how I’ll ever be able to repay them,” Markland said to Bennett.

To see more about Artistic Icing, click here.