Teacher battling cancer was surprised when school bus pulled up outside her home—what happened next left her in tears
Having to reconstruct life while battling terminal illnesses like cancer is a heartbreaking reality. Leaving one’s job, routine, lifestyle and more to prioritize hospital visits and treatments can feel disheartening. A teacher who goes by Ms. O’Connor also had to face a similar challenge when she had to shift from teaching at Lyle Public School to undergoing cancer treatment, ABC 6 News reported. She was forced to discontinue teaching in May and it had been months since she last went to the place she cherished. When she suddenly saw a school bus pull up to her home one day, she was moved to tears on learning the reason.
The teacher who loved her job and was a delight to be with suddenly stopped showing up to school. Those who didn’t know about her condition yet were left curious and worried. Cori McRae, Elementary and Middle School Principal of Lyle Public School, explained, “We just expressed that she was really sick and we didn't want to spread the germs.” However, the students felt for Ms O’Connor. Even teachers who had learned much of the profession from her were saddened by her having to stay home. That’s when they came up with a plan. School buses showed up on O’Connor’s street, leaving many to wonder what the reason might be.
However, those at Lyle knew exactly why they were there. “We decided that we wanted to bring school to her because Ms. O Connor, more than anything, loves teaching, loves her students, loves her colleagues, we’re all family to her,” McRae said. They decided to have a Ms. O’Connor parade and unitedly arrive at her home to surprise her and wish her a good recovery. A video shared by the school captured the students and teachers arriving in the buses and getting off with their raincoats and umbrellas to make their way to the teacher.
“Cancer doesn’t care if it’s raining and neither did we! It was so good to see you!” they wrote in the caption. The faculty and kids arrived bearing different kinds of gifts, posters, notes, flowers and other items to let their beloved member know she wasn’t alone. It was a tearful event for all as they assured Ms. O’Connor that she had their full support and love. “We had some that were really sad just knowing that they hadn’t seen her, and then seeing her now, she does look a little different than when they last saw her. Some were crying so hard because they miss her so much, they just want to be with her, they love her,” the principal recalled.
She highlighted how the teacher was “like a mom” to the students and their hearts were full of empathy on seeing her in the bittersweet moment. Many people were touched by the school going out of its way to arrange for a parade, plan the route and arrive with heartfelt gifts of support — all to express love and gratitude at a time when it was needed most. Michaela Klein said, “This is a fantastic way to love your people!” Kristin Peck added, “Definitely brought some tears.” Kaylee Greibrok remarked, “This is so special. Stay strong, Miss O’Connor! You are truly the best. This definitely brought tears to my eyes!”
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