Katie Shustha

Unfortunately on December 9, 2020 the world lost one of the kindest souls to ever grace it; Katie Shustha. Katie was the type of person who wanted to put a smile on everyone's face; the checkout lady at McDonald's, a man behind her in line in the gas station, friendly faces at work, anyone and everyone. Not only would she ask about everyone, but she genuinely cared about their response too. Katie lived her life knowing that everyday is a struggle for some and if she could be a bright spot during their rainy day why not try? Not only was Katie a blessing to strangers, but she worked to positively impacted those in her life. I was fortunate enough to meet Katie two years ago while we worked at a company providing therapy to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Here I watched Katie always, without being asked, clean up the playroom, take out the trash, watch her coworker's clients when they needed a breather; you name it she did it. Not only that but she made her coworkers feel valued and appreciated. That was Katie's specialty. Making people feel seen, heard, and loved. The kids also felt this. My client always ran up to her and gave her a hug. He loved opening his work bin and finding a fun note from "Miss Kate" and being able to spend time with her in the center's playroom. For me personally, she was always there when I called. She was there with food, wine, and hugs when you needed some cheering up, and if I had a dollar for every dish of mine she ever washed for me without asking I could've bought her all the Uccello's thin crust, light sauce pizzas in the world. It didn't ever matter what you were going through or how gross you house may have gotten because of it; Katie would come to help you pick up the pieces so you could start fresh. Finally, there is no mentioning Katie without mentioing Vincent John Shustha, her 13 year old son. Vincent was given the maiden name of her grandmother, a woman she tirelessly cared for and absolutely adored. Katie was always there for Vinny and workes non-stop to give him anything he could ever want and need in this life. Vinny, or her "little," as she called him, was her whole world. I was lucky enough to get to see Katie as a mom; she always asked, and really listened, about his day, hobbies, and friends. If they had a fight she apologized and explained her side of the store and gave him space to speak his truth too. It warmed my heart to hear that on Thanksgiving she got to spend the day putting up their Christmas tree and watching movies with him; a day I was told by each party was a memorable one. There are not enough words in me to describe just how truly good Katie was. She cared about everyone and everything. If you needed help Katie would be there no questions asked; so, in her honor I am asking for donations to help her family and son during this unexpected and difficult time. I will let the Shustha family decide if they would like to use the funds for the service or to save up for Vinny. Any and all donations are incredibly appreciated.