Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to meet Cathy in person, though our lives crossed about a year ago.  My partner Cindy and I are neighbors to Cathy's daughter, Stephanie and son-in-law, Doug.  About 2 years ago, Stephanie told us about Cathy's diagnosis and the journey she was on. Approximately 6 mos. later, my partner was diagnosed with incurable Renal Cell Carcinoma. 

It was a very rough time.  We were not only dealing with all the emotions attached with this news, but were struggling financially. One day, my lawn mower wasn't working and Doug told me to bring it next door and he & Stephanie's brother, Josh, would take a look at it. Unfortunately, the mower needed repairs beyond their means, so they offered to take it to someone they knew in the Chetek area.  In the meantime, Doug and Stephanie loaned me their mower.  Long story short, the mower could not be repaired.

About one week later, Stephanie called me and ask me to come over.  (I can't remember the excuse she used.)  At any rate, she and Doug were out in their driveway, in front of their garage, as I approached.  We chatted, then Doug said, "Oh, on our way up to Chetek to see Cathy, we ran across something we thought you would like."  As he said this, the garage door was opening.  I glanced inside, and there sat a brand new, shiny, red lawn mower, with a big ribbon on it!!! Stephanie said, "This is from my Mom- Cathy, Josh and Doug & I."  I couldn't believe it!!!  They went on to inform me that Cathy had a big part in suggesting to buy us the mower.  

To think she could be so giving to people she had never met was unbelieveable to me!  Here she was going through so much herself, but was thinking of others in need! 

I call this story "Kindness Came in Full Circle" because yesterday, I was able to use that same mower to mow Stehanie and Doug's lawn.  They have been staying in Chetek, caring for Cathy for months. I wanted to do something to help during this very difficult time of loss.  As I mowed, several tears and many thanks were spoken to Cathy.  I hope she could look down and see that her kindness came in full circle.  What a special woman!!!

With much love and gratitude,
Janet Pruitt