It’s not every day you meet a hero.
And they don’t always wear capes.
Lori Feller is mom to 16 year old triplets, and of course that makes her a hero right from the start. She joined the Primetime bookclub when her triplets were still babies – seeking out some grown-up conversation one night a month. Years later, I met her when I joined that bookclub. In 2010, in spite of her busy personal and professional schedule, Lori joined the Friends of the Greenwood Library board and assisted with fundraising. She wanted to give back to the library she loved, and she did. Then at the end of 2011 when everything seemed to be falling apart for GPL, Lori walked up to me in my first hours as Director, and said, “I’m ready! Put me in!” She was appointed by the Greenwood School Board and has been Trustee President for most of that time. In those first years as a brand new Director she was not only my boss, but also my cheerleader as we put the pieces back together and worked to create a financially sound library for our community. She truly is a community hero.
This year was a tough one. Just over a year ago, Lori walked into my office and let me know that she’d been given a tough diagnosis. Cancer. Of course, superheroes aren’t afraid of anything and she was ready for the fight. But the rest of us were afraid. She fought and we prayed through this year. Incredibly, she didn’t even miss many meetings. We were amazed, again, and again at her strength. I know that she didn’t feel strong, but I hear that heroes sometimes don’t. I know she will say she’s not a hero, but don’t let the lack of a cape fool you. Today Lori is cancer free and back to doing what heroes do. Taking care of her family, supporting and leading her community, and making a difference, every day.
Happy Birthday, Lori. We love you!