A simple act of kindness and caring was experienced first hand by Jasperite Tilly Froland last week.

According to the 89-year-old, her mind was probably a little consumed by worry that day – her son, Brian, has been fighting cancer and she was off to visit him at Seton Hospital.

“I’d been to go and visit my son in the hospital. He’s my youngest son, and he’s been having treatment over the years,” she said.

With her walker leading the way, the long-time Jasperite headed downtown to run a few errands – first to the Post Office and then to the grocery store.
After selecting her grocery items, Froland headed to the check out. A busy day, she said there was lots of people around.

“I came to the counter, and my bill was $17 something,” she said.

But, when she reached for her purse she suddenly realized it wasn’t there – something that never happens to Froland.

“I’ve never done that before,” she said. “I use a walker and I always put the strap around the seat so it can’t fall out, and I have to carry it out.

“I was worrying about my son or something,” she added.

Unsure of where her purse was, Froland quickly explained to the checkout operator that she only had change in her pockets, so she would have to put some items back.

“I had about $10 in loonies and toonies... And then, just out the side of my eye, I saw somebody flip some bills onto the counter. I didn’t know what was happening, and I didn’t realize what was going on.”

The anonymous lady placed two $5 bills on the counter and was gone before Froland had a chance to even thank her.

“I just stood there and my tears were coming down my face.

“She paid for all the groceries and the girl even gave me change,” she said.“It seems to me that people should know that there are people willing to help each other out there.”

Froland wishes she had a chance to speak to her and say “I love you, there should be more people like that, not because of the money... people who care about other people, and it’s not that I’m destitute or anything.”

Froland found her purse at home, but is extremely grateful for the help she received.

“My many, many thanks (to her) and I just love to know people like that exist,” said Froland.