Kate Fink, a breast cancer survivor, attributes part of her triumph to someone unexpected at her care center in Buffalo, New York: the hospital valet.

The 41-year-old Fink expressed her appreciation to CBS News, saying, “Absolutely, I mean he’s made an impact. Not just me, but so many other people.” The valet she’s referring to is Jon Avery, who works at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Avery stands out for his approach to his job, filled with joy and contagious optimism. He explained, “There’s always an exception to the rule, right? So I’m one of the exceptions.” His presence is so uplifting that despite the presence of wheelchairs, he can make patients feel as if they aren’t burdened by illness.

Avery aims to create interactions with patients that are meaningful rather than hollow. His ongoing encouragement to Fink, with reminders like “You got this,” eventually changed her mindset.

Fink’s gratitude for Avery’s support led her to want to give back. When Avery casually mentioned his dream of attending a Buffalo Bills game, Fink saw an opportunity. Together with her colleagues at West Herr Automotive Group, she organized efforts to surprise Avery with tickets and field passes to the game.

Avery was deeply appreciative, though he felt the gesture was more than he deserved. “I serve people, that’s what I do,” Avery commented. “And if I don’t got nothing else in the world that means anything to anybody, I know I can live in service.”