Marietta Jackson, the cheerful and kind-hearted lunch lady at Drake University’s Hubbell Dining Hall in Des Moines, Iowa, is experiencing an outpouring of love from her student customers. For the past 15 years, Jackson has been a constant source of positivity, making every student feel at home as they pass her cashier station.
What sets Jackson apart from other lunch ladies is her ability to remember every student’s name, greet them with a warm smile, and make them feel special. Her kindness has not gone unnoticed, with students expressing their gratitude and admiration for her.
However, Jackson’s sunny disposition belies a personal struggle. She has been battling ovarian cancer, which has forced her to take time off work and undergo medical treatment. Despite the challenges, Jackson remains steadfast and continues to work whenever she can. Her perseverance has inspired Drake basketball player Maggie Bair to start a GoFundMe campaign to help Jackson with her medical expenses.
The campaign has raised over $18,000, a testament to the impact that Jackson has had on the lives of those around her. Former Drake University staffer Keesha Ward describes Jackson as a source of warmth and comfort for everyone at the dining hall.
In the face of her illness, Jackson remains grateful for the love and support she has received from the students. She considers herself blessed and expresses her thanks to all those who have contributed to the campaign. The funds raised will help cover some of the medical expenses that are not covered by her insurance.
Jackson’s story serves as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in people’s lives. Her unwavering positivity and resilience in the face of adversity have made her an inspiration to all who know her.
