During a particularly challenging time for my family, I encountered an extraordinary act of kindness from a stranger, alongside the generous support of an airline. It was right before Thanksgiving when my mom suffered a stroke. Living in Michigan, while my parents were in Florida, I frantically spoke to nurses about her condition. On Friday morning, I received devastating news: my mom might not wake up. I knew I had to get to her side as soon as possible.
Within half an hour, I rushed to the airport with my 3-month-old baby, Lily, while my husband and older kids dropped us off. I managed to secure a ticket for an 11:09 a.m. flight to Orlando, with a layover in Chicago. Holding Lily close, I boarded the plane, but soon learned that it required maintenance, and we were stuck on the tarmac. Frantic phone calls to my dad and husband filled the time as I worried about my mom’s fate.
After an hour of waiting, the flight attendant announced our flight was cancelled. Overwhelmed, I broke down, fearing I wouldn’t make it to my mom in time. Just then, a woman named Sarah in front of me turned around. “I’ve been listening to your conversations,” she said, “and I’m here for you. I won’t leave until you’re on your way to Orlando.” I was too emotional to speak, and other passengers glanced back as they exited.
Eventually, we were the last to deboard, and the flight attendant informed Sarah she had to leave. Meanwhile, my husband found a direct flight on Southwest Airlines leaving at 12:15. I explained to the flight attendant that I needed to catch that flight, but time was slipping away. Sarah insisted on carrying my heavy backpack so I could focus on Lily.
We sprinted to the Southwest gate, only to find it empty except for a ticket agent, who I later learned was named Jamie. I rushed to her, tears streaming down my face, and explained my situation. As Jamie processed my request, the American Airlines crew kindly brought my stroller and car seat. However, the ticket was $400. Without hesitation, Sarah stepped up and offered to cover it. I protested, but she insisted it was her gift to me for the holidays. “Just take care of your family,” she said, hugging me tightly.
With Sarah’s help, I boarded the plane right before departure. If you were on that flight, you might have seen a late passenger, crying while holding a baby—now you know the story behind that moment.
When I landed in Orlando later that day, an email awaited me from Jamie, expressing condolences and letting me know Sarah had returned to ensure I was okay. Jamie also mentioned that Southwest Airlines had gifted Sarah a voucher for a future flight.
I finally reached the ICU visiting room at 6:15 p.m., just 15 minutes before visiting hours ended. I sent Sarah a message on social media thanking her and included a photo of my dad holding Lily that night, which she had helped make possible.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for these moments of kindness. To Sarah for her selflessness and to Southwest Airlines for their exceptional customer care. When I booked tickets for my siblings to join me in Florida, I made sure to choose Southwest Airlines.
Mom passed away on December 3, 2015, and she will be deeply missed. It’s a poignant reminder of how vital random acts of kindness can be during our toughest times.
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Summary
Acts of kindness can have a profound impact, especially in hard times. Emily shares her personal story of how a stranger and a supportive airline helped her reach her family during a crisis, illustrating the importance of compassion and community support in our lives.