“A Car for Mary: The Sweetest Soul at McDonald’s”

If you’ve ever gone through the McDonald’s drive-thru in Smithers, WV, chances are you’ve been lucky enough to meet Mary. She’s the cheerful, caring voice that brightens your day with a simple smile, a kind word, or a heartfelt “How are you doing today?”

Over time, Mary and I have become drive-thru friends—small moments turned into real connections. On days when I’ve been at my lowest, she’s noticed. And instead of rushing me through, she’s taken the time to talk to me, comfort me, and remind me that people do still care.

But Mary carries far more than most of us know. She’s a mom to an amazing daughter who is severely autistic, has ADHD, and also lives with Pfeiffer Syndrome—a rare genetic condition that affects the development of the skull, face, and limbs. Her daughter’s medical care is complex and often out of state.

Mary doesn’t have a car. I recently saw her walking after physical therapy for her hand—4 miles (that’s 1 hour & 30 mins) home, on foot. When I picked her up, she shared that she missed her daughter’s medical appointment because the rental agency wouldn’t rent to her—she lived just five miles outside their boundary. Now she has to wait months for Shriners to help with their transportation.

When I asked about what happened to her car, she calmly said, “A tree fell on my it.” I kept repeating how terrible and sorry I was. She just smiled and said, “Well, some people have it worse off than me.” That moment proved to me as to what a beautiful, selfless soul she is.

Mary gives so much joy and compassion to complete strangers from a drive-thru window—imagine what she could do with just a little help.

The main goal is to find Mary a safe & reliable vehicle for her and her daughter. If there is any money left over, it will be personally handed to Mary.

If Mary has ever made your day a little better, made you smile, or reminded you that kindness still exists in this world—please consider donating or sharing this post

Let’s show Mary that the love she gives to others is coming right back to her!