BONUS BLOG: another thank you to all who helped my mom

My mom (July 29, 1912 – November 4, 2017) was helped by many people in many ways, and I continue to not have adequate words to express my appreciation. Here’s an example of what I’m talking about, from 10 years ago today – – –



When I arrived at my mom’s nursing home last evening, she was beaming. Haven’t seen her this animated and alert in weeks, months, a very long time.

Holding a cookie and a sheet of paper up for me to see, she proudly announced, “I got mail today!”

The 8 1/2 x 11 white piece of paper was folded in half so it opened like a greeting card.

My mom slowly read it out loud to me. Handwritten on the front in blue ink: “Dear Ruth Scheets” and the inside, again set up like a greeting card: “Dear Ruth, I love you! Shelby” followed by a heart shape. I knew it was from a Staff Member there.

She put it down with a big sigh.

When I could see and speak again, I told her that might be changing soon.

Then she picked up the cookie. “And it came with this cookie, which is delicious. Want some?”

Clearing my throat and wiping my suddenly-leaky left eye, I thanked her but declined the cookie.

I asked her if she likes getting mail these days.

“Well of course I do! But nobody writes to me anymore.”

Blew. Me, Away.

—- And then ten years ago today I shared her USPS address, mentioned her upcoming birthday, and invited people to send her a birthday card or note in the weeks ahead.

Almost 400 pieces of mail arrived for her.

To say she was giddy and overwhelmed for weeks would be an understatement!

Again, thank you.

More than you can imagine, thank you.