We don’t always get to see the ripple effect of our actions. But last fall, what started as a routine office email became the spark that lifted a family through the unthinkable.
That’s when Ashley Boyd’s boyfriend, Ricc, went from an ordinary drive home to a fight for his life. A devastating auto crash left him in the ICU, where doctors placed him in a coma, uncertain if he would recognize his loved ones again.
“It was horrific,” recalls Ashley, who works at Entech Staffing Solutions in Troy. “When he finally woke up, it was like starting life over — learning to walk, talk, remember, everything.”
And then an unexpected email changed their path. Emma Hampton, a manager at Entech, heard about Troy City Lifestyle’s annual Giving Campaign and shared the nomination form with the entire team. Ashley saw it and nominated Ricc, hoping for a little help.
“I didn’t know what to expect,” she says. “Even just encouragement or a little relief with bills would have meant something. It could give him hope.”
Her instinct was right. Ricc was chosen as a recipient. More than easing financial stress, the recognition lifted his spirit. “It wasn’t about the money,” Ashley says. “It was knowing people cared. It gave him something to keep fighting for.”
Emma was just as moved. “You never know what someone is going through,” she reflects. “Forwarding that email felt so small at the time, but it made a huge difference. I’m so glad I didn’t just delete it.”
Today, Ricc is rebuilding his independence, back to part-time work and finding healing through music. His journey is ongoing — but thanks to one email and a simple nomination, he has hope.
This holiday season, you can be part of the ripple effect. Nominate a neighbor, colleague or friend who may be facing challenges in our annual Giving Campaign (see how on page TK). Your simple act could change everything for someone around you.