Carol Wells, the front-end manager at south City Market, was surprised to tears Sunday afternoon when some community members presented her with a care package to help her recover from a stroke.
Wells is well-known by City Market shoppers as a charismatic employee.
“She is the nicest woman at City Market,” said shopper Jenna Black. “We are in here every day getting something, and she is always so helpful.”
In November, Black said she immediately noticed Wells’ absence at the store. When she learned Wells suffered a stroke, Black organized a care package of donations.
“So many people in town said they wanted to help,” Black said. “I’ve been collecting the donations all week. It’s powerful to see how much love is here.”
Black and other shoppers presented the care package to Wells.
“I am feeling amazed and very blessed right now,” Wells said. “For over 11 years these people have accepted my wacky self. I love these folks; they heal me.”
Donations include meal vouchers from restaurants Ken & Sue’s and East by Southwest, carpet cleaning by Black Bear Carpet Cleaning & Repair, hair care from BeautyMARK and more.
Additionally, Wells’ children organized a crowdfunding campaign to help pay for her medical bills and occupational therapy. As of Sunday evening, the campaign had raised nearly $10,000.
Shopper Donna Middleton said Wells’ “vibrancy and excitement” sets her apart from the rest.
“You can’t miss her when you’re standing in line because she greets everybody,” she said. “She always says hello and asks how you are doing. I noticed right away when she wasn’t there because her happy face was missing.”
Wells returned to work this month, but she faces a long recovery. She said her City Market family will help to make recovery more bearable.
“I have so much more love and sunshine to share,” Wells said. “As long as you guys keep me here (City Market), this is where I want to be until I can’t anymore.”
mrupani@durangoherald.com
