One simple act of compassion can transform someone’s entire life. An excellent example is Frank Grasberger. He’s been through more than many of us can comprehend as a World War II veteran. So when he received a letter thanking him for his service from a 9-year-old girl, it meant the world to him!
When he received the letter in 2009, he was still serving, and he and his wife, Dolores Grasberger, were so moved by her sentiments that they tried to seek her out so they could express their gratitude. However, due to privacy concerns, the little girl’s school refused to release her contact information.
They may, however, take a thank-you note, which they will deliver to the child. While it was better than nothing, Frank understood it couldn’t match to thanking her directly. That’s why Frank and his family have spent the last 12 years seeking for her.
Frank and Dolores were able to get some outside aid in their quest for his mystery pen pal now that they were residing at Vitalia Senior Residences in Strongsville, Ohio. It took some time, but Vitalia’s resident services director, Jill Pawloski, eventually located her on social media.
DeShauna Priest, now 21, was completely taken aback when Jill messaged her on Facebook. “I just started crying, and I had to go tell my mom,” DeShauna explained.
Frank’s thank-you note had reached her, and it had left an indelible impression. She was only in third grade when she sent off her letter with the rest of her class, but it changed the trajectory of her life. DeShauna has joined the Army National Guard! After contacting DeShauna, it was time to plan the surprise of a lifetime.
Frank had no idea Jill had tracked him down until DeShauna entered the room holding roses. To say he was surprised would be an understatement! He couldn’t hold back his tears as he realized the woman in front of him was the tiny child who had written the letter he still carries around with him. “I’m madly in love with you.”
“I truly do,” Frank stated. “Honest to God, I thank you so much for being here.”Frank has gone through a lot in his life, including what he calls “miracles.” He has an amazing wife and children, and he survived the Battle of the Bulge. He’s even been through three heart attacks. “And now I’ve met the girl who signed my letter… and that is a true miracle,” he remarked. “That is correct.”
Now that they’ve finally found each other, Frank, Delores, and DeShauna have exchanged numbers and promised to regularly keep in touch — and we have no doubt that they will! Watch their tear-jerking meeting in the video below.