They formed a deep bond, and Bob came to see her as the mother he had lost.

After receiving the birth certificate, Bob returned home but kept in touch. He visited her annually with his daughter until she passed away. At her funeral, he learned she had left him part of her inheritance.

In her honor, Bob founded a charity with her children—and eventually married her oldest daughter, Shirley, who became a loving stepmother to his six kids.

The lesson: Acts of kindness can change lives. Bob never forgot Mrs. Sticks’ compassion, and her generosity inspired him to give back and build a life filled with love.