Americans were shocked on Monday when news broke of a deadly stabbing attack at the UT Austin, which left one student dead and several others injured.
Stories of inspiring heroism are emerging – like Leona Di Amore, who ran towards the chaos as others were fleeing for their lives. It was a blessing someone with her experience (a Navy medic) was on the scene. “The likelihood of someone with my training being on the scene is a miracle; it was an absolute miracle,” she told the Chicago Tribune yesterday.
Thousands of unsung heroes are beginning to emerge as well. Despite a lack of intense media coverage, people all across the country and the world from stepping up and showing why private charity is so important.
A pair of GoFundMe campaigns, one for the family of the fallen student, and another for recovering victim Stuart Bayliss, are providing a powerful example of what can happen when people take the lead in serving others rather than delegating it to a giant bureaucracy.
Instead of having to worry about expensive hospital stays and funeral costs, and navigating red tape – these two families can now rest a little easier thanks to countless strangers.
In just over a day, the two campaigns have raised $225,000 and counting. The Harris Brown memorial fund stands at $149,000 of its $175,000 goal. Meanwhile, $51,000 of $75,000 has been raised for the medical costs of Stuart Bayliss.
Even more important than the money are the constant flow of prayers and well wishes. Reading the stream of beautiful sentiments and prayers has to be a comfort to the family in the midst of grief.
“May God’s Grace carry you through this time and the days to come. Love and Prayers, Un Texas Austin Texas A&M Alum,” read a comment on the GoFundMe board. It’s inspiring to see so many people, most without any connection to the victims other than pure compassion, providing love and encouragement to a grieving family.
“Sending prayers from Texas Tech University,” said Kati James. Hers was one of many:
Beautiful.
Over 5,000 people have donated. Simply click the hyperlinks above if you wish to contribute.
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