Here's the scoop!

55 West & Co is officially for sale. There are lots of stories and rumors about so I thought I'd share a little about what's really going on...

This past fall, I went for an annual doctor check-up and was shocked to find out that I am in stage 5 renal failure. I will start dialysis soon and will need a kidney transplant in the near future. The doctors say that I'm a prime candidate for a transplant, and it's a pretty common procedure these days--some good news! In the meantime, I am taking tons of herbs, eating lots of organic veggies, and seeing many new age doctors. I'm actually the healthiest that I've ever been besides the kidney function!

This has been a life-altering experience...I've decided that I need to make some big changes and really focus on healing. Many tears were shed when I realized that keeping the store open was no longer an option. I just can't physically keep up with it. On a positive note, I have decided that I will continue to create jewelry, artwork, rugs, and painted furniture. My plan is to find a barn in the country where I can have a workshop and host quarterly shows. I will also continue selling my wares to other retail stores; 55 originals will still be available in cute shops throughout Ohio and beyond!

The building and/or the business are for sale. I would love to see 55 West continue to operate in Millersburg. It's such an inspiring escape for regulars and a fun surprise to Amish country visitors. Because of the circumstances, however, I must consider selling the building alone should a buyer be interested. Please feel free to spread the word!

The plan is to keep the store open until it sells as long as there are no major health complications in the meantime. I have reduced the hours of operation, and sometimes just don't have the energy to open. So please call ahead if you're making a special trip! If the building sells and not the business, we will have a huge sale, but I'm still adding inventory at this point.

I'm so thankful that I got to be a part of Downtown Millersburg and meet thousands of interesting people over the years. I really appreciate all of the support from the community and fans of 55. The outpouring of support has been more overwhelming to me than hearing the news about my kidneys. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your support, prayers, and well wishes. I feel truly blessed by your kindness!