This week’s Pay it Forward is in Windsor Township, York County, where one family’s strength and courage through adversity is an inspiration to those around them.
Raising five kids isn’t easy, and for Debbie Baublitz, it’s even more difficult. Ten years ago, her son Zack Fuller, who’s now 25, suffered traumatic brain injuries after he was hit by a car.
A little more than a month ago, another terrible accident happened, involving Baublitz’ 24-year-old son Matt Fuller.
“She had a son that was helping a neighbor trim trees and a branch fell down and knocked him off of his ladder and as of right now, he still has paralysis in his legs,” said family friend Rachel Newcomer.
Newcomer said Baublitz’ handles everything life has thrown at her with grace.
“Even at the end of the day, when she is so exhausted, she always says there’s somebody worse off than me,” Newcomer said. “She’s just so inspiring and I don’t think she realizes how much she influences other people.”
For that, Newcomer wanted to “pay it forward” to Baublitz with $200 from FOX43.
“I came today to Pay it Forward to you, because I want you to know how much you inspire me and you are so appreciated with your family and everybody you meet,” Newcomer told Baublitz. “I just know you can use it right now.”
Matt Fuller said he too is amazed by everything his mom does to care for him and his brother.
“I don’t know how she does it,” he said. “I don’t know where she gets her energy from.”
Baublitz said a great support system, and unexpected acts of kindness along the way, help her through the most difficult times.
“When one person shows a kindness back, it gives you enough to go on another day and face another day, because there are people out there that do care,” she said.
Baublitz’ has three older children, two sons and a daughter.
Her eldest sons also has special needs.