Hey guys... Scott thought I should share a 'feel good' story with y'all, so here goes. A few weeks ago I made a trip down to Fresno, California to visit a cancer stricken friend (Dan) that needed a bit of a 'pick-me-up to get him through a tough time. I drove my 53 down there and we ended up visiting a few of his friends to show off a bit. I let him drive for a bit and he just went into a smile that just wouldn't go away. His friends saw a side of him they hadn't seen in at least a year. He was joking around, laughing, and just plain having fun. A truely beautiful day for him. When I left for home, Dan was in tears that the event had taken him away from his worries and pain and brought back so many memories of his car past, something that he has been away from for the past 10 years. That got the 'wheels' turning. Ron... Dan's best friend down there suggested that we look for a car for him. Something that he could drive easily without the worries of mechanical failure. We would all kick in $$$ and find something before the driving season is over. Ron immediatley found a very nice 64 Chevelle that fit out requirements prefectly. Ron, being a bit well off, paid for the car and kept it at his house for the time being. The group sent me an airline ticket for the presentation. We decided to eat at Dan's favorite cafe and park the car in their parking lot. We gathered and sat Dan so he could clearly see the car as he ate. He was wondering why I was there but we came up with a excuse that worked. Dan kept looking at the car and made comments on how great it looked and wondered who in the cafe was driving it. When we finished eating we walked out side and he headed directly to the car to take a closer look. He still didn't know what was going on... then we opened the car door so he could get a closer look at the interior and Ron handed him the keys.... There wasn't a dry eye anywhere!!! He as shocked and very emotional. I had to return home that afternoon with a huge smile on my face. I've had calls from the guys down there and they say that Dan drives it everyday everwhere! The power of friendship and giving has no bounds when it comes to the needs of the stricken. We don't know how long Dan will get to drive this car, but we know he enjoys every moment he is in it. His wife has never seen him happier. I'm proud and honored to be part of this event.
You've certainly figured out what this thing called life is all about. I've buried 2 relatives and a close friend in the last year and never once was it mentioned at the funerals how nice of a house they had or how they worked a ton of hours to get promotions. It's the stuff like you mention above that stays with us.
Valiant deed and a great story. I was telling Geno that he had to spread this story around- I think a lot of people could benefit from reading this. I know it sure made my last couple of weeks a heck of a lot better. You are a great friend Geno, I'm honored to know you.
What you guys did for your friend is just awesome! This is a great way to end the day knowing that there is still good things happening to good people.I'll sleep better tonight!
I got a call last night that Dan's son from Texas is arriving tonight (friday) to spend the weekend with him. I wonder what they will be doing??????? That car will need another set of tires soon!
if there is a heaven, you guys have a few seats with reserved signs on them.one of the best feel good stories ive read in a long time.i was loosing my faith in mankinds ability to care for each other. you boys have renewed that faith.i pray that he gets to enjoy that car for a long time to come.
Geno, you do realize that in this world there are angels and heros. Well, if you're not sure if you've ever seen one, you need to take a look in the mirror. Like I've said to you before, people need that now days...and thank God there are still people around that prefer the reward of seeing someone smile as all the payment they need. I mentioned to you that the parts I got from you were another step to get me closer to finishing our car so my parents can enjoy it, as dad's not really able to work on them much anymore...well, my dad had unexpected heart surgery last week and is recovering, but none-the-less, it makes me feel even better about what I'm building and putting together for him and mom to enjoy. Stories like yours seem to snap people back into reality and show them what is truly important in life, and after reading this this morning, You've made my day! Thanks!
There was more than just me involved here. I will thank the other 4 guys involved in your names. They will appreciate your thoughts. I hope to get a few pics on here soon.
Awesome. Geno, you and your friends are special in today's world and have blessed your friend and made what time he has left worthwhile.
Great story,We need more people like you in the world. I like to think that my car buddies are like family, I'am honoured to be in such company. tony.
The Jalopy Journal
