Guest Editorial: A Little Bit of Kindness

By Phoenix Fuel

Photo credit: SheKnows.com

It has been said that a small act of kindness can go a long way and can inspire others to do the same. And thanks to the generous efforts of one community leader, this one simple act made all the difference to a Phoenix mother and her son.

Michelle Campuzano is a single mother to her son David with special needs. At the age of three, David’s brain stopped developing and has endured over 30 brain surgeries. Now at age 24, David’s ability to get in and out of the car has become increasingly challenging. That’s when Craig and Vicki Bell, owners of Bell Auto Service, decided to extend a helping hand and offer some kindness to a family in need.

Having experienced similar circumstances within their own lives, The Bells originally got a wheel-chair accessible van in 2007 to assist their special needs son Tyler. In early 2020, Tyler lost his battle to lung disease. Seeing a fellow caregiver family in need, the Bells decided to donate their van to Michelle and her son.

In order for the van to be a source of reliable transportation, the Bells, Martin’s Auto Repair and Community Tire Pros & Auto Repair, the Neighborhood Auto Repair Professionals (NARPRO) members, Earl Scheib Paint & Body, and Helping Hands for Single Moms came together to make the necessary repairs for its next owners. After $5,000 in total repairs, the van was ready for its next family.

Shortly thereafter, the Bells gifted Michelle and her son David a fully equipped wheelchair-accessible van, much to the shock and appreciation of Michelle and her son.

This simple act from neighbor to neighbor serves as a reminder that everyone can use a little kindness, big or small. Whether it’s paying it forward at the drive-thru, donating to a local charity or extending a helping hand to others, they can make an impactful and important difference in the lives of others.