Carol Mack loves her students. Now, they’re proving to the world just how much they feel the same way about her.
For 45 years, Carol has taught generations of students, even this school year as she’s been fighting cancer. Once her cancer advanced, however, she was forced to go into hospice care, leaving her unable to teach.
Before she moved into Aurora Health Care, a friend and fellow teacher wanted to find a way for Carol to see her students one more time. So, with help from the hospital, her care team, and the school, Carol was able to get the kind of heartwarming reunion she deserves.
Outside the hospital entrance, 26 students from first through fourth grade gathered along with several teachers. Many of the kids’ parents were there, too, several of whom were former students of Carol.
“She didn’t have children of her own but has more kids than she could ever count. To see so much love coming back to somebody that is so selfless and deserving, it is a true blessing,” said Nicole Bartnik, an occupational therapist at Aurora St. Luke’s.
Once everyone had gathered around Carol, the students began to sing worship songs for her, including “Jesus Loves Me.” The beautiful gesture not only touched their beloved teacher, but everyone else who was there to experience it.
“When I saw her and the kids singing, it was the most rewarding thing,” said Luiza Campols, an RN on Carol’s team. “We were very lucky to be a part of that. It was the most beautiful, touching thing.”
To top it all off, Carol was able to talk with her students individually, giving them as many hugs as possible.
“It was overwhelming and very special,” Carol said. “I hope people see how much these kids and their teacher loved each other and how our school community came together.”
What a beautiful example of coming together to encourage an everyday hero! Share this article to wish Carol a full and speedy recovery.
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