Master Your Money With Reverse Budgeting
TRUCK DRIVER RECEIVED AN EMOTIONAL SECRET SANTA SURPRISE
When truck driver Carl opened his trailer door to a news crew in 2022, he did not appear to be in the mood for company. The 72-year-old East Idaho resident initially seemed standoffish and skeptical of the unexpected correspondent and his camera, asking several questions about why they were visiting him. But when reporter Nate Eaton handed Carl an early Christmas gift from “an anonymous person,” he warily relented and invited the crew inside. When he opened the gift box, Carl found a stack of gift cards inside. He appeared surprised and puzzled, so Eaton explained that four gift cards were worth $500 each for gas for his truck. Another $2,000 was included on four additional cards from a local supermarket so he could purchase groceries. Carl was in shock.
He began to tear up at the unexpected generosity and shook the reporter’s hand in gratitude when Eaton announced he had one more surprise left. He then handed Carl a cashier’s check worth $10,000 to spend however he wanted. “Thank you so much,” Carl replied emotionally before trailing off, “You don’t know …” It’s unclear how East Idaho News and their Secret Santa chose Carl as the subject of this generosity, but the selection was no accident. Carl had lost a leg above the knee 37 years prior but still worked four days a week at age 72, sometimes clocking 14-hour days.
he had three COVID-19 infections in less than three years. Despite worsening health and pain caused by his amputated lower leg, Carl continued to begin work at 2 a.m. while also making time to attend his grandchildren’s sports games.
Carl explained the gift meant he could finally retire.
He repeatedly requested the identity of his Secret Santa, but East Idaho News refused to say. So, Carl instead thanked his anonymous gift-giver through the camera. His hard exterior melted away, leaving only gratitude and awe behind. In his last words in the broadcast, Carl promised to “pay it forward” by finding a way to help someone else.
He’d also suffered more recent setbacks; his wife died from a brain aneurysm in 2010. Meanwhile,
Building Connections and Creating Peace of Mind
Welcoming Ruben to the Shoup Legal Team We’re excited to introduce a new member to our team: Ruben, our new estate planning advisor! Ruben meets with clients to discuss their needs, goals, and priorities, helping them select the best estate planning strategy. Originally from San Diego, Ruben comes from a background in real estate and recently decided to embark on a new chapter in his career. “I wanted to serve my community and make a meaningful impact,” he shares. “Estate planning is essential for individuals, and I’m proud to be part of something that truly makes a difference in people’s lives.” Here at Shoup Legal, Ruben cherishes the opportunity to learn about individual family needs and help them protect their assets to create peace of mind for the future. “It’s a rewarding experience when our clients can leave and feel relieved and proud that their family is covered and their ducks are in a row,” he tells us. “I’m thrilled to be here and make connections with our clients that go beyond business,” Ruben says. “It’s all about developing friendships and giving the gift of peace of mind. I’m proud to help others in such an impactful way.” Outside of work, Ruben and his wife love cooking together, watching sunsets, and playing pickleball outdoors. They’re also avid Kansas City Chiefs fans. Family time is especially important to Ruben, and he cherishes the holiday season spent with his kids and grandkids.
Ruben, we are thrilled to welcome you to our family at Shoup Legal. We look forward to continuing to serve our community together!
Plan today for peace
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