People tend to think teenagers are selfish, close-minded and sometimes just plain cruel, but when it comes to the people they love, this next story proves it couldn't be further from the truth.
When 17-year-old Brendan Garn of Potterville, MI learned about an essay contest from the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association he knew exactly what he had to do. Brendan wrote an essay on his biggest hero, his mom.
Michelle Garn has been in a wheelchair for most of her young son's life, ever since she suffered a brain stem stroke at age 29. Now the 42-year-old mom is unstoppable, but without a proper vehicle to get around and shuffle her kids to school and sports activities, life is very difficult.
"My mom is not only my hero, she is an inspiration to me and the strongest woman I know." Brendan wrote in his 400-word essay. Unfortunately, he was crushed when he learned he only got a spot as a finalist and didn't win the contest, which promoted National Mobility Awareness Month.
That's when Tom Kolassa, a local retired businessman read about the Garns' story in a local paper and knew he could help the struggling family. Kolossa, a complete stranger, spent an estimated $45,000 to buy Michelle a new 2014 Chrysler Town & Country and make it wheelchair accessible.
The kind act couldn't have come at a better time, as Michelle worried about her old van, which had seem to broke down. When Kolossa delivered the gift himself, Michelle broke down in thanks.
"I grew up having really nothing and I see that," Kolossa told BattleCreek Enquirer. "I see the hard work she's doing in trying to support two children. If I can help somebody like that, that's important, in my life and hers."
