I am the Director of Community Relations for the Stockton Heat hockey team of the American Hockey League. A lot of time, I forget the significance of the simple moments because I work for a sports entertainment organization. To me, a puck drop or a zamboni ride or even a fundraiser is just another element of game presentation. To those who select – oftentimes related to a special cause – these moments are once-in-a-lifetime special moments.

My 7 of Hearts moment happened a few years ago. One of my clients asked if I could donate a pair of tickets to a young boy and his mom in celebration of his birthday. For his birthday, all the boy wanted to do was host a blood drive to help out kids like him who needed blood. You see, he had a heart condition that left him very sick and constantly in need of blood transfusions. I told my client not a problem, and also offered to give him a ride on the zamboni during one of the intermissions. It was “just” a zamboni ride, not a big deal. But to his family, that night WAS a big deal. It was a chance for him to spend time with his family, have a special adventure, and even meet the team mascot. He was so happy and wanted to share each moment of the night with his mom. He was such a humble kid, so grateful and said thank you and hugged everyone who had helped him that night.

“We each have gifts and may not realize their impact…” A simple moment for me was a huge moment for him and his family, but it’s a memory that I will carry with me forever.