Jennifer Vasilakos was at an intersection trying to raise $20,000 for a stem cell procedure she needs to help save her life because she suffers from kidney failure and does not qualify for a transplant. When a man stopped to ask her for directons, she did her best to guide him and gave him a pamphlet about her plight.
It turned out the man was Ty Warner the creator of Beanie Babies. He read the pamphlet and returned later telling her that she could stop trying to raise money because he would pay the $20,000 she needed for the procedure. He kept his promise.
I LOVE this story!
Russ Towne's A Grateful Man 
My mom collected Beanie Babies. Before she died, she had 77 of them. She gathered all of her 7 great-grandchildren in her hospital room and divvied up the precious, stuffed toys – 11 to each child (they got to take turns and pick, one at a time! I have 4 of the little critters. Your story gave me one more reason why I do not want TazE, my crazy Boston Terrier, to chew on them! My son’t name is Ty. I always knew Beanie Babies said “Ty” on them. Now I know why. One more reason why they are special to me! Thanks for the post, Russ.
Thank you for sharing all these story connections, Jan. Interesting! I had wondered where the “Ty” name had come from too.
Russ
What an incredible blessing! Awesome. 🙂
Yes indeed. Karma in the fast lane.
Russ
What an amazing beautiful story. I’m so grateful you shared it.
Thank you for your comment, Kendra.
Russ
That’s INCREDIBLE…just made my day! 🙂
I’m glad to hear it. I love sharing stories that are day-makers! Thank you for your mcomment, Bonnie.
Russ
Wow, what a FANTASTIC story!
I agree. Now, if the stem cell procdure works and she is cured, that will be a truly happy ending. And you know how much I LOVE happy endings!
Yes, me too! Hopefully they will do an update on her progress!!
I plan to spread the word if I see an updated story.
Russ
Thank you!
What a fantastic story Russ. Makes you believe in the goodness of human nature again doesn’t it? 🙂
Yes, I believe that most people are basically good, and have the capacity to do great things for their fellow humans and other creatures. This story made the news due to the dollars and illness involved, but billions of kindnesses happen around the globe every day that don’t make the news. Of that I’m certain. I’m glad that some incidents of kindness make the news, as such stories are wonderful reminders of the good that can be found within humanity. They are indeed life affirming. Thank you for your comment, Judy.
Russ
Wow! Love this story! xo
Thank you, it is wonderful. It’s like a feel-good movie, but is true.
Russ