kindness

An inspirational artist is giving patients a “window view” with murals designed to spark an escape from the sterile environment of chemotherapy, taking them on an imaginary journey to a sunny place. Colleen Wall’s journey into the Arts & Healthcare field began in 1995, when she was diagnosed with cancer while four months pregnant. This life-changing experience fueled her passion for using art to uplift others facing similar battles. After beating cancer, she served as an Artist in Residence on the oncology floor at Women’s & Children’s Hospital of Buffalo, an experience that changed her perspective—and her mission—forever. One spring morning, Colleen entered a patient’s room and remarked, “It’s such a beautiful day outside!” The patient, looked up from her bed and replied, “It always looks the same from here.” That simple exchange sparked Colleen’s idea for a project: A View for a Room—Transforming Healthcare Spaces. It was successfully funded with a crowd-funding Kickstarter campaign a decade ago, and it offered her the opportunity to go on a painting sabbatical where she created 20 inspirational paintings that she called LandEscapes. Designed specifically for healthcare environments, the window-inspired paintings incorporate elements of nature, and always include roads and paths, to invite the viewer into the scene. They also feature words of encouragement and inspiring ideals. Colleen’s goal is to give every patient a view to a sunny, peaceful place, offering a mental escape from the confines of the hospital room and a reminder that better days are ahead. Not too long, she began painting her LandEscapes directly on walls at the Roswell Park Cancer Center in Buffalo, New York, where ten window murals were recently installed. Spending long periods of time in a hospital room can feel isolating, said Ms. Wall. These window paintings are meant to help patients feel as though they are not confined to a sterile room but instead can take an imaginary journey outside into nature. “It’s my way of sharing the hope that helped me through my own challenges.” Stated Colleen.

John D. Rockfeller (July 8, 1839–May 23, 1937), the founder of Standard Oil, was once the richest man in the world. He was the world’s first billionaire. “He amassed a net worth of at least $1 billion in 1916. When Rockefeller died in 1937, his net worth was estimated to be approximately $340 billion in today’s dollars.” By the age of 25, he had one of the largest oil refineries in the United States. He was 31 when he became the world’s largest oil refiner. At 38, he controlled 90% of the oil refined in the United States. At fifty, John was America’s richest man. As a young man, every action, attitude, and connection was crafted to establish his wealth. But at the age of 53, he fell unwell. His entire body became wracked with pain, and he lost all his hair. In total anguish, the world’s lone millionaire could buy anything he wanted but could only eat soup and crackers. According to an associate, “He couldn’t sleep, wouldn’t smile, and nothing in life meant anything to him”. His personal, highly trained physicians indicated that he would die within the year. That year passed painfully slowly. As he approached death, he awoke one morning with the faint understanding that he would not be able to bring any of his fortune with him to the next world. The man who could dominate the commercial world suddenly realised he had no control over his personal life. He informed his solicitors, accountants, and management that he intended to devote his assets to hospitals, research, and charity work. John D. Rockefeller started his foundation. The Rockefeller Foundation financed Howard Florey and his colleague Norman Heatley’s penicillin research in 1941. But arguably the most astounding aspect of Rockefeller’s narrative is that when he began to give back a fraction of all he had gained, his body’s chemistry changed dramatically, and he recovered. He was expected to die at the age of 53, but he survived to reach 98 years old. Rockefeller learnt gratitude and returned the great bulk of his money. This made him whole. It’s one thing to be healed. It is another to become fit. He was a devout Baptist who attended the Euclid Avenue Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio. Before he died, he wrote in his diary: “God taught me that everything belongs to Him, and I am merely a conduit to carry out His will. My life has been one long, happy holiday since then; full of work and play, I let go of my worries along the road, and God was wonderful to me every day. Credit: Church Time and Seasons.

A four-year-old boy named Elliott Hole, who is battling leukemia, has made a heartwarming gesture by delivering over 400 bags of Christmas gifts to the children’s hospitals where he received treatment. Together with his mother, Harley, they aimed to spread joy by providing advent calendars and various entertaining items for other young patients during the holiday season. Living in Kent, England, Harley set up an Amazon Wishlist to allow community members to contribute gifts. This initiative resulted in the collection of 346 items, which included chocolates, games, bubbles, stickers, and stationery, all intended for party bags. The family distributed these gifts across three local hospitals: the Royal Marsden in Sutton, King’s College in London, and Princess Royal University Hospital in Farnborough. Harley shared her insights on the hospital experience: “From what I have experienced, you are stuck in a room and unable to leave because of viruses and it gets very boring.” She expressed gratitude for the warm reception from patients and nurses alike, noting their amazement at the volume of gifts delivered. “I stopped counting when we got to 400 but I would say in total we did about 440, as well as over 100 calendars,” she added. Elliott’s journey began in January 2022 when he started limping. After hospital visits and blood tests, he was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia just three days later. He is currently undergoing a three-year treatment plan that includes daily chemotherapy. Reflecting on their challenging journey, Harley remarked on the emotional toll of their experiences: “When he was first diagnosed, we basically lived between Kings, Marsden, and Darent Valley Hospital for the first four months.” She now remains vigilant for any health changes in Elliott, emphasizing his resilient spirit: “He is a very kind little boy. He is quite outgoing. Considering everything that he has been through you would never think that anything was ever up.” Even in this condition,  Elliot has not allowed his condition get in the way of his kind and compassionate heart.

Larry and Kelly Peterson’s story is one of serendipity, resilience, and love that transcends challenges. Their journey began at a Spina Bifida camp when they were just 10 years old, where a remarkable coincidence unfolded: both were born on the same day. This early connection blossomed into a high school romance, but life took them on different paths, resulting to a decade of silence. However, fate had other plans. Reconnecting through social media reignited their bond, and in 2015, the couple tied the knot in Indiana. Eager to start a family, they faced an uphill battle with adoption. Kelly, unable to conceive due to her disability, was once told that her condition might hinder their chances of adopting. Yet, undeterred by these obstacles, Larry and Kelly pursued their dream with so much determination. Their breakthrough came through a special needs adoption agency when they learned about baby Hadley’s story. Instantly recognizing that they could provide the love and understanding she needed, they welcomed her into their hearts and home. This past July marked a double celebration for the Petersons: their ninth wedding anniversary and five years since they adopted Hadley, who shares their journey with Spina Bifida. Thanks to Special Angels Adoption, the Petersons found their daughter—a perfect match for their family. With their unique insights into the challenges Hadley faces, they embraced parenthood wholeheartedly. The experience has been a beautiful blend of joy and learning as they witness Hadley’s personality blossom and celebrate her milestones. Kelly brings over 20 years of experience as a special education teacher to the table, yet parenting presents its own set of challenges. Navigating life from their wheelchairs—where Kelly has no use of her legs and Larry relies on support to walk—they adapt creatively to care for Hadley. Their families nearby lend a helping hand, ensuring that love and support flow freely within their home. Now, Larry and Kelly are on a mission to empower others with Spina Bifida who aspire to adopt. They aim to dismantle stigmas surrounding disabilities and parenting while offering guidance to families grappling with new diagnoses. Their story does point to the universal truth that even in the face of personal challenges, there is always room for compassion and generosity. It’s easy to get caught up in our struggles and overlook the blessings we possess. Instead of focusing on what we lack, let’s celebrate the privileges life offers us while striving to uplift those around us. In doing so, we not only enrich our own lives but also become pools of inspiration for others navigating similar paths.

Williamson County Sheriff Jeff Diederich shared a critical update on social media, emphasizing the importance of timely intervention in a potentially dangerous situation. He stated, “Had the deputy not been present or delayed in executing this maneuver, the driver and her vehicle would likely have plunged into the water upon reaching the lake.” This highlights the crucial role that law enforcement plays in ensuring public safety. The incident unfolded rapidly, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of such emergencies. The deputy’s quick actions were instrumental in preventing a potentially tragic outcome, underscoring the importance of being vigilant and prepared in high-risk situations. The presence of law enforcement who are truly committed to effectively discharging their duties can often mean the difference between life and death. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were dispatched to the scene as a precautionary measure. The driver later informed the deputy that she was pregnant, which further justified the EMS response. Their arrival was part of a proactive approach to ensure the well-being of both the driver and her unborn child, showcasing the commitment of first responders to protect and serve their community.

What’s the worst wedding day disaster you’ve ever heard? For Meredith Diedrich, a wedding venue that burns to the ground and a hospitalized hair and makeup artist promised to ruin one of her most memorable days—and it all happened in an instant. On the morning of the wedding day, Three Notch’d Brewery, Distillery & Craft Kitchen in Nellysford, Virginia, burnt down, with nothing but fragments of the timber frame left standing. Meredith’s mother got the call from the venue organizer at 7 a.m. explaining what happened. Initially, she thought her mom was joking, but when she arrived to survey the damage, she had “no clue even how to react.” Simultaneously, Meredith’s hair and makeup artist was admitted to the hospital for pregnancy related health complications. My bridesmaids had stayed overnight with me, so I called them into the room and told them what had happened. We all were in shock for a few minutes, then started to laugh,” Meredith told People Magazine. “I had thought, ‘what else is there to do but laugh?’” Taking it all in stride, and boosted by a team of dedicated bridesmaids, Meredith got to work calling all the guests and explaining what happened while the venue organizer at Three Notch’d began to contact other potential venues in the area to see if a space was available. The moment we got the confirmation for the new venue we all got to work,” Meredith told People Magazine. “Me, the bridesmaids, some family friends, my parents, and the staff at both venues all worked to put everything together as quickly as possible at our new location, seven minutes down the street at Blue Toad Hard Cider.” The effort to move all the catering, favors, table sets, and more “took a village” but produced a beautiful, intimate wedding that rose like a phoenix from the ashes of a near disaster. It wasn’t what we originally planned, but it turned into a day filled with deep love, meaningful moments, and memories we’ll treasure forever. It was a testament to love and resilience.”

Dr. Ibadin, a lecturer in the accounting department at Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma, generously provided transportation allowances to students who attended his lecture. Aware of the current challenging economic conditions, he empathized with his students and chose to “Try A Little Kindness” (T.A.L.K). Each of us has the capacity to bring joy to others. It is essential that we embrace and share our inherent kindness, making it a priority to spread it freely. Through kindness, love, and empathy, we can contribute to healing the world and creating a safe haven for all. In that very portfolio, in that very neighborhood, with those resources you can still be of help to someone. Go out there with a mindset to make others believe in the existence of kindness and humans that are humane.

Oprah Winfrey is widely recognized as America’s most celebrated broadcaster. Upon announcing her retirement, a festival was organized in her honor at a football stadium. The event had people dropping their jaws in awe when it was revealed that for 25 years, she had quietly sponsored 65,000 individuals in need without anyone knowing. Many of those beneficiaries attended the event, and 450 of them lit candles in tribute. Among them were five Harvard University professors who delivered a brief sermon encapsulating the impact of Oprah’s generosity: “Without Oprah, our lives would be vastly different.” Can one individual truly transform the lives of 65,000 people in such secrecy? Humanity is not merely a belief system; it represents a level of achievement that some individuals attain, akin to the wisdom of Socrates. To everyone listening, especially you: focus on nurturing human potential rather than engaging in futile and harmful rivalries. When you rise in life, strive to uplift others rather than subjugating those who are yet to reach your level of success. Be a true embodiment of humanity.

When Esther Sanderlin, a local pilot from rural Skwentna and West Susitna Valley, Alaska, learned that some of her neighbors were planning to share a single squirrel for Thanksgiving dinner, she decided to take action. Contrary to the common belief that turkeys can’t fly, Sanderlin demonstrated otherwise. With small single-engine planes being a typical means of transportation in her area, she felt inspired to help. “I was visiting our newest neighbor, and they mentioned splitting a squirrel three ways for dinner, which didn’t seem like enough,” Sanderlin recounted to Alaska’s NBC affiliate KTUU just before Thanksgiving. “In that moment, I thought, ‘I’m going to airdrop them a turkey for Thanksgiving,’ especially since I recently rebuilt my first airplane with my dad and can do that quite easily.” Sanderlin fondly recalled her childhood experiences of receiving air-dropped turkeys when the roads became impassable in late autumn. Motivated by these memories and the squirrel dinner news, she decided to give back to her community. This year, she plans to drop off 30 to 40 turkeys, ensuring her neighbors have plenty of food to celebrate the holiday with friends and family. Fortunately, she doesn’t need parachutes for the turkeys; the soft snow below and the frozen state of the birds make for a safe landing. Looking ahead, Sanderlin expressed her desire to transform her turkey drops into a nonprofit organization so she can reach even more communities across Alaska in the future.