Cancer has opened my eyes to so many things over the past several months, but most of all it has taught me that people are genuinely good and the value of human kindness is immeasurable. I’ve been fortunate enough to make acquaintances with so many beautiful, kind and caring souls within the last year and with each fare, I have come to acknowledge and appreciate the practice of human kindness in this world.

Today I received a phone call in the middle of the day from Steve, which is not unusual, however he told me that we had somewhere to be at 5:30pm and to get myself together. Of course being impaired to any self-control or “secrets”, I was foaming at the mouth to know what was planned. All he was able to share with me was that someone reached out to him earlier in the morning and that there was a surprise waiting for me. As the afternoon went by, I was running through anything that it could be and whom was behind this so-called surprise.

Shortly after Steve arrived home from work, we left the house and soon after arrived at the destination. As we pulled up, I was completely puzzled as to why we were at the particular destination, but thought it was perhaps a stop on the way. He held my hand as we approached the door of VOX, a local store that is full of vintage and vintage inspired items, as well as home to my recent obsession. I had been to the store a handful of times since discovering it a few months prior. Each time I visit the store I love it more and more and drool over certain things that I MUST have. Being a bit of a spendy shopper, I have been trying to downsize my addiction in lieu of having to pay off medical bills and the bills of every day life.

As I walked into the store, Tricia handed me a bag, which had written on it, “Cancer is SO last season!” I couldn’t believe this was my surprise; I was so touched and shocked. I opened up the bag and removed the purple tissue to find a clear clutch that I had been lusting after for the last month or so. Tricia proceeded to congratulate me on my recent remission news and said how inspired she and the store were by my story and journey through cancer. This was hands down the utmost and ultimate gift and I will always remember the thoughtfulness every time I wear my new clutch.

It goes without saying that I am extremely thankful for such a kind act, but moreover I am resonated with the fact that in the end only kindness matters.

Thank you, Tricia and VOX for making me smile from ear to ear. I am a forever customer of your lovely shop.