Waitress sees 2 firefighters walk in, writes note on check that leads them to take action

One of the most difficult jobs is that of a first responder. We should always be grateful for the invaluable work they do for local communities.

Firefighters Paul Hulling and Tim Young stopped by Route 130 Diner to rest and eat after spending more than 12 hours putting out a serious fire at a warehouse in North Brunswick, New Jersey.

They discussed their day there, and Liz Woodward, the waitress who was serving them, overheard their conversation.

When the two firefighters were about to leave the diner, the waitress handed them a handwritten note that read, “Your breakfast is on me today. Thank you for all that you do, for serving us and for running into the places everyone runs away from. No matter your role, you are courageous, brave and strong. Thank you for being bold every day.”

The firefighters’ hearts were so moved by the note. Hulling even shed a few tears because he was so moved by the kind gesture. Liz had demonstrated that someone valued their work, and that meant the world to them.

Even though the firemen were so appreciative, they offered more than just their thanks. Tim posted the note on Facebook and encouraged his colleagues to stop by Route 130 Diner if they get the chance and tip Liz generously if she happens to be their waitress.

They also found out that Liz had created a GoFundMe page to support her wheelchair-bound father, who had a brain aneurysm that rendered him paralyzed, and that she was working tirelessly to raise money for a wheelchair-accessible van.

“He needs access to the outside world. He needs to see the world outside his hospital bed,” Liz wrote in the description of the fundraiser.

Liz’s initial goal was to raise $17,000 from the campaign, but after Hulling and Tim spread the word, she ended up raising over $86,500.

“I don’t even know what to say to that,” Liz said, as tears of joy were rolling down her face. “That’s incredible — what a way to wake up today. I had no idea today was going to go like this.”

Liz also shared an update on GoFundMe that read: “Our family has witnessed an outpouring of love & support from around the world, and I want to thank each and every one of you beautiful human beings for making this dream possible!”

“All I did was pay for their breakfast, and I didn’t think anything would come about it except they would leave with a smile,” Liz told WPVI.

It is true that a little act of kindness goes a long way. Liz has a big heart, and after showing kindness to the first responders, she received tenfold more kindness in return.