Our community has been rallying around a local woman facing breast cancer. A recent post by her family stopped me in my tracks.
Her husband had just started a new job at The Home Depot. When his coworkers learned about his wife’s diagnosis, they surprised the family with a care package.
Not a generic basket. Not something rushed together, but a package filled with items chosen with genuine thought and empathy:
An iPad
The Caregiver’s Guide to Cancer
A pulse oximeter - estimates the level of oxygen in your blood and heart rate
A Yeti water bottle
A portable soup container
You can tell every item had a purpose.
Years ago, Scott and I gifted an iPad to a co-worker whose son was facing surgery. We knew long hospital days could feel isolating and exhausting. Games could offer distraction for the family. A larger screen would make it easier to communicate with loved ones, manage information, and stay connected during a stressful season.
Thoughtful care anticipates needs people may not even realize they’ll have.
I also love that The Home Depot gave a group gift. One person may not think to give an iPad, but a community can often do something remarkably meaningful together.
The family that posted the care package photo wrote, “Such a thoughtful gesture during a really hard season for our family. So grateful for people and companies who take the time to love others well.”
I couldn’t agree more.
Warmly,
Adina
