Tim Young and Paul Hullings of New Jersey are firefighters, both dedicated to their work. One evening in the summer of 2015, they worked tirelessly for 12 hours to clear out a fire. Afterwards, completely exhausted, they went for breakfast early in the morning and requested the strongest cup of coffee that the diner had to offer. Their waitress that day was Liz Woodward, and she happened to overhear the two firefighters discussing their long night of work. Later, when Tim and Paul went to pay, they were quite surprised by what was written on their bill.

Facebook/Tim Young

As Tim and Paul read this message, they were overwhelmed with gratitude and thanked the waitress for her kind gesture. On Facebook, Tim recounted the event: “Such a selfless and kind act. I definitely urge my friends to make a trip out and support the business, and if Liz happens to be your waitress, tip big."

Facebook/Tim Young

But the story didn't end there! The firefighters learned that Liz’s father, Steve, was a quadriplegic and had been paralyzed for five years. The previous winter, Liz had set up a donation page to fund a wheelchair accessible vehicle to transport her father. Tim urged people on Facebook to donate to Liz’s crowd-funding campaign: “Turns out, the young lady who gave us a free meal is really the one that could use the help…"

Facebook/Liz Woodward

Then, something unbelievable happened: within a few days, Liz had raised more than $70,000 — far more than the $17,000 needed for a wheelchair accessible van. Liz and her family couldn’t have been more grateful to the two firemen: "All I did was pay for their breakfast. I didn’t expect anything more than a smile,” says the waitress. “It goes to show that you just have to be kind to each other and that even the smallest gesture can change a life.”

Facebook/Liz Woodward

This story proves that kindness pays off — often in ways we would never imagine. If this heartwarming gesture moved you, then share the story of Liz, Tim and Paul with your friends!