Thanks to very special lady from Libby

To the Editor:

I am writing to let you know how a very special lady and her act of kindness made my day.

My husband celebrated his 60th birthday on May 3. I sent friends and family a cute photo card announcing his achievement. We are going to surprise him on June 8 with a party. For people far away, I asked if they could not attend, but to just send a card, which I would keep for the big day.

I work at the Scio Post Office, and as I was sorting letters one morning, I saw one from my brother-in-law, Jerry Erickson, who lives at Libby Care Center.

I was so surprised as he has MS and I knew he could not possibly do this. I told my postmaster that someone was so nice to take the time, buy the card and send it that it almost made me cry.

You don’t know how often I wish I could hear from him though his writing and speech are affected by the disease. The only communication I have with him is I write to him and then when I come to Libby I always spend time with him.

That afternoon I called the Libby Care Center to thank whoever the “angel” was that took the time to make my day. I learned it was Kandis Peterson. We chatted for quite some time, and I told her how she will never know how that made me feel. I have often wondered how he is doing and if he ever needs anything.

We live in Oregon so not close enough to just drop by. I have often thought of going into a nursing home and doing just that for a person who could not write to his/her family as it is so important to keep in touch.

If we all would think how it could make someone’s day like she made mine… put yourself in that situation with a loved one you don’t hear from often.

There are too many people in the care homes who never receive a card, visitor or phone call. Kandis is going to try to sit with Jerry once a month and write a letter from him so I know how things are going. Because of her dedication I am going to “pay forward” and find someone to help keep in touch too.

I graduated from Libby in 1969 so it is home to me. I always knew “Montana” people were special and she is proof for the Libby Care Center. I hope they appreciate the dedication that she has to make a difference in the lives of their patients.

Lois (Jantz) Robinson

Scio, Ore.