Celebrating Acts of Kindness

July 25th, 2025 | News

RMHC-Madison regular volunteer, Michelle Stange, knows exactly how much a simple lunch can mean during a hospital stay. Years ago, both of her sons, Ethan and Evan, were hospitalized at American Family Children’s Hospital (AFCH) for a week each to undergo surgery for pectus excavatum – a condition where the chest wall is sunken in. Michelle never left their side.

“The fact that you could go and grab some food and not have to leave made a huge difference,” she recalls. “When your kids are in pain and they don’t want you to leave, it’s very nice to have it there. Sometimes you don’t have money for the vending machine, or you forgot it, or you don’t want to eat the stuff in the vending machine. You want to eat something healthy.”

At the time, Michelle assumed these lunches were provided by the hospital. It wasn’t until years later that she learned the meals were part of a broader community initiative — Augie’s Lunches with Love — a collaborative program through RMHC-Madison to support families. In partnership with the hospital, the program offers free, fresh lunches to all families with a child receiving care at AFCH, reflecting a shared commitment to comfort, compassion, and community care.

She shared that she makes it a point to do at least one kind thing in memory of her cousin’s son, Carson. After battling cancer for many months at AFCH, Carson sadly passed away. His loved ones launched a community campaign called Kindness for Carson, encouraging acts of kindness in his honor.

Now, every Wednesday, Michelle’s own act of kindness continues each week in the RMHC-Madison kitchen, preparing lunches that include a half sandwich, fruit, veggies, chips, and always a sweet treat. She’s been volunteering for more than two years.

When corporate volunteer groups join an Augie’s Lunch & Learn, Michelle often shares her story before walking with them to deliver the meals to the hospital. “People come in to make sandwiches, and they don’t really understand the impact that it makes,” she says. “You know what you’re doing, but why are you doing it? It means more when you can go there and drop it off… you’re realizing that this is an important thing.”

As they pass Hope Park along the way, Michelle often points out the heart wall tile she donated in memory of Carson – a lasting symbol of love, remembrance, and the power of kindness.

Michelle’s story is a beautiful reminder that the smallest gestures – like preparing a lunch – can make a lasting impact. Her weekly commitment is not just an act of service, but a ripple of compassion that continues to touch families when they need it most. Michelle carries forward a legacy of love – one kind act at a time.