When Bob Hollis got a call from a Florida hospital telling him that his wife had died while giving birth, his life changed dramatically. The 40-year-old widower hurried to Florida to get his new daughter, but he had no idea what problems he would face there.
When Bob and Mary, his wife, tried for years to have a child, they finally did after adopting three kids. Bob was shocked when Mary died suddenly, but he focused on taking care of their child.
Bob met Mrs. Meredith Sticks, an 82-year-old volunteer at the urgent care unit, when he got to Florida. Her care and advice made the hard process of getting his daughter easier for Bob.
But Bob’s trip ran into another problem when flight workers wouldn’t let him board with his four-day-old daughter because it was against the rules. Bob went to Mrs. Sticks for help because he was really upset and by himself.
An Angel in a Mask
Mrs. Sticks let Bob and his daughter stay at her house and gave them shelter, warmth, and support. Her kindness and giving helped Bob deal with his loss and take care of his new baby.
Bob learnt about Mrs. Sticks’ big family and how she just lost her husband while they were together. The things they had been through together made them very close.
A Fresh Start
Bob went back to Texas after getting the birth certificate for his daughter. He was thankful for Mrs. Sticks and went to see her every year with his daughter. When she died, Bob was shocked to find out that she had given him some of her money.
A Gift of Kindness
Bob and Mrs. Sticks’ children started a charity because Mrs. Sticks was so kind to others. After that, he married her oldest daughter Shirley and had six children with her.
The story of Bob shows how kindness and caring can change things. Strangers can be angels in times of trouble, giving hope and support. Through Bob’s family and the organisation that helps people in need, Mrs. Sticks’s memory lives on.
A chance meeting that leads to a lifetime of thanks
Bob’s story shows us that kindness can grow even when we are sad. His friendship with Mrs. Sticks taught him how important it is to connect with other people and how one person can change another person’s life.
Bob realises that life’s problems can sometimes lead to unexpected gifts as he thinks back on his journey. After meeting Mrs. Sticks by chance, his life will never be the same. She taught him that people can still be kind.
