Your cart is currently empty!
Seeking Evidence That Kindness Can Transform the World? Look No Further!
In the midst of a challenging time for my family, I encountered extraordinary generosity from a stranger and the unexpected compassion of a major airline.
My mother suffered a stroke just before Thanksgiving, and we were uncertain about the extent of her condition. Living in Michigan while my parents were in Florida, I was in constant contact with the nurses. On Friday morning, the nurse informed me that my mom might not wake up again. I knew I needed to be with her and my dad. In a frenzy, I packed up my 3-month-old daughter, Lily, and had my husband and older kids drop us off at the airport, hoping to catch an 11:09 a.m. American Airlines flight to Orlando, connecting through Chicago. I secured the ticket and boarded the plane with Lily in my arms.
However, the plane required “maintenance,” and we were stuck on the runway. During that hour, I was on the phone with my father, husband, and niece, discussing my mom’s health and my growing anxiety about getting to her quickly. After an hour, the flight attendant announced the flight was canceled. I was devastated, breaking down in tears as I called my husband, fearing I would miss my chance to be by my mom’s side.
Just then, the woman seated in front of me turned around and said, “I’m Sarah. I’ve been listening to you, and I’ve been praying for you and your family. I won’t leave you until you’re on a plane to Orlando.” Overwhelmed with emotion, I could barely respond as other passengers exited, glancing back at me. Eventually, we were the last to get off the plane, and the flight attendant asked Sarah to deboard, saying the airline would assist me instead. Despite her reluctance, she left the plane.
Meanwhile, my husband found a 12:15 p.m. direct Southwest Airlines flight. All other flights were much later. I told the flight attendant I needed that Southwest flight, which was just about to leave. She walked me off the plane, and Sarah was waiting for me. She insisted, once again, that she wouldn’t leave until I was on my way to my family, taking my heavy backpack so I could focus on holding Lily. We found a ticket agent, and I explained my urgent situation. The agent, who had sold me the American ticket, expressed sympathy but stated that American didn’t have a contract with Southwest.
Undeterred, Sarah asked where the Southwest gate was. The agent pointed us down a few gates, but the clock showed it was already noon, and she warned us there was no way Southwest would let me on that flight. I insisted I had to try, and Sarah and I dashed to the Southwest gate, her still holding my bag and me cradling the baby.
When we arrived, the gate was nearly empty, save for a ticket agent named Molly. I rushed to her, tears streaming down my face, and explained my situation. Just then, the American Airlines crew was helping with my stroller and car seat. Molly asked about the fare, which was $400. Without hesitation, Sarah stepped up and said, “I’ll pay for her ticket.” I protested, insisting I could cover it, but she insisted it was her gift to me for the holidays. I cried even more and promised to pay it forward. She told me to focus on my family and that in doing so, I was already giving back. She hugged me tightly and said, “I love you, and so does the universe.”
Molly ushered me onto the plane, and there were only two seats left. If you were on that flight, you might have seen me board late, tears in my eyes, holding a baby, looking both shattered and relieved.
Upon landing in Orlando that afternoon, I received an email from Molly, the Southwest agent, which included her heartfelt message wishing me well and conveying the support of the staff back in Grand Rapids. She also provided Sarah’s contact information, noting that Sarah returned to ensure I had made it on board and that my luggage was taken care of. As a token of appreciation, Southwest Airlines offered Sarah a voucher for a future flight.
I reached the ICU visiting room at 6:15 p.m. — just 15 minutes before visiting hours ended.
I sent Sarah a thank-you note through Facebook, along with a photo of my dad holding Lily that night, made possible by her kindness.
Now, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for these acts of kindness. Thank you, Sarah, for your generosity and Southwest Airlines for their outstanding customer service. This experience was more than just customer assistance; it was genuine customer care. When booking my siblings’ tickets to Florida, I intentionally chose Southwest Airlines.
My mom passed away on December 3, 2015. She was deeply loved and will forever be missed.
This story highlights how, even in our darkest moments, kindness can shine through and change everything. For more insights on fertility and home insemination, check out this resource, and if you’re interested in learning more about insemination kits, visit this link.
Summary
In a heartfelt recounting, Laura Gentry shares her experience of a stranger’s kindness during a family crisis, showcasing how compassion can make a significant difference in difficult times. With the support of a fellow passenger and an airline, she managed to reach her ailing mother just in time. This story serves as a reminder of the profound impact of kindness and the importance of community support.