The Nyack Farmers Market offered more than its usual selection of goods last Thursday, sending love and well wishes to a cherished vendor recovering from a serious accident.
For the second consecutive Thursday, dozens of market-goers signed a “get well sooner than soon” poster for Devon Larkins, the friendly face behind the Doc Pickles stand. Larkins, who is well-loved by the community, was involved in a severe crash earlier this month on Route 80 in Pennsylvania and remains hospitalized. Unfortunately, he may face the partial amputation of his left leg due to his injuries.
“Doc Pickle and myself, we love Nyack,” Larkins shared in a phone interview from his hospital bed. Despite the circumstances, he was in good spirits. His absence at the market was keenly felt, with manager Bill Batson noting, “If you’ve been to the Nyack Farmers Market, you know Devon. He is the person who is always smiling. He provides our soundtrack. And his presence is instantly missed. In fact, we didn’t do it intentionally, but there’s no music today. That’s kind of the mood. We miss the music of Devon’s presence.”
Laureen Motto Gallo, a regular at the market, added, “He is the best, dancing to his music and his smile. Praying for his full recovery. We do miss him.” Another regular, Meghan O’Rock, echoed the sentiment, saying, “That guy is the nicest, most fun guy. Wish him the best in his recovery. Hope to see him soon.”
Another frequent visitor to the Nyack Farmers Market and Doc Pickles A- list customer , Gabriela Ceballos shared her thoughts,”Oh my god,he was so welcoming to me and the absolute sweetest! He is the reason I eat pickles today! His pickles are amazing and I am wishing him a speedy recovery. “
Jack Knife, from Jack Knife Sharpening, added, “Certain people set the mood; his attitude is infectious and he has built a consistent following. I wish him a speedy recovery as well.” Adding they’ve known each other for a long time, like family.”, Jack also said, that Devon is known for groovin’ to his tracks and jokingly added “He stole my playlist.!”
The heartfelt poster, created by market organizers, also included a link to a GoFundMe campaign started by a family friend. The fundraiser has already raised over $25,000 to support Larkins and his long-time girlfriend, Shana Gafner, during this challenging time.
“Everyone in our town, Lodi, New Jersey, we call him the mayor because he’s always in everything. He’s always willing to help,” said Gafner. “He creates this buying experience of pickles into friendships, into laughter, into unbelievable conversation and making people come back.”
Larkins’ reach extends beyond Nyack, as many have seen him and Doc Pickles at various markets throughout New Jersey and Philadelphia. His unique ability to turn a simple transaction into a memorable experience has endeared him to countless customers.
The community continues to rally around Devon Larkins, showing the true spirit of Nyack and beyond. To support Devon Larkins, please visit his GoFundMe page and contribute to his recovery.
For updates on Devon Larkins’ recovery and to contribute to his GoFundMe, please visit this link.
Photos by Andrea B. Swenson
