Support Will's Recovery and The Manning Family

My name is Kevin, and I met Will in 2013 which was the year we made the first Heartwood Forge film in Athens, Georgia. We recently filmed and launched a new one commemorating Will's 10 years in the knife making business. If you've followed his journey, you've witnessed Will rapidly expand his creativity, craftsmanship and artistry. The knives he produces from reclaimed materials aren't an inch short of extraordinary. On June 8th Will was processing reclaimed wood for his knife handles and suffered a horrific band saw accident, causing extensive damage to his left hand. On June 15th he had surgery to repair a damaged tendon. He will be out of work for at least two months. A majority of his family’s income is generated by his quarterly sales where he sells roughly 40+ knives. At this point, his August sale will no longer be feasible. Loss of income aside, he is also incurring out-of-pocket medical bills along the way.

I've personally never created a campaign like this before and thus have no expectations. I do know that doing something is better than nothing. Will's net financial loss is yet to be determined, but could amount to $50,000+. My hope is that together, we can bring relief to at least part of that burden by covering his medical expenses and potentially helping replace their family's loss of income.

I am writing this on June 19th, 11 days after the incident. People began helping immediately, and Will and Lee both want to express their immense gratitude for all the support thus far. People have brought food, given gift cards, and even mowed their lawn. My hope is that this fundraiser is yet another vehicle of support and love we can come together on, as well as provide updates with his recovery journey.

Will is obviously wildly gifted and dedicated to his craft, but I’m certain we can all agree that Will’s incredible character and heart forged of gold is what stands out to all who’ve met him. Updates will be provided over the next few months as Will recovers. While his path forward is uncertain, we have the ability to add a degree of stability by rallying in support. Please consider donating and clicking the share button. I believe in the power of this community. Whether you’re a maker, musician, friend or fan, let’s support the Manning family.