Love thy neighbor

Cara with her new hero, Wyatt (Courtesy Trisha Kielty)

Illinois Boy Wins $1,000, Donates Money to Neighbor Fighting Leukemia – Yahoo!.

When I read an uplifting and inspiring story, especially one that involves children, I can’t help but share it since we need more good news in our lives. All of us need it.

Enter 8-year-old Wyatt Erber of Illinois.

Wyatt’s neighbors, the Kieltys, have a 2-year-old daughter named Cara who is battling leukemia. And anyone who knows about cancer knows it costs a lot for treatment.

Wyatt’s mother learned of a scavenger hunt being organized by a local bank and asked Wyatt if he wanted to participate. The grand prize was $1000 and when Wyatt heard this, he immediately agreed to join in.

“Let’s do it,” he told his mother. “And if I win the $1000, I want to give it to Cara.”

As it turned out, Wyatt was the first to complete the scavenger hunt and indeed won the cash prize. He instantly offered it to Cara’s parents, who reluctantly accepted because it meant so much to Wyatt.

Since his altruistic act, a local charity matched Wyatt’s contribution to the Kieltys and people have been sending in letters of support and even more money for Cara. In other words, his choice to “pay it forward” seems to be spreading.

This is the second story I’ve posted today about children doing selfless and kind things for others. If only adults could follow their examples, then our world would be a much better place for all of us.

I tip my hat to you, Wyatt. Thanks for showing us what life is really all about: love for your fellow man… or in this case, your cute little neighbor.

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