Whether it’s at home, work, or just out in public, we brush by people all the time. It’s rare that we have genuine interactions with people as well, but stories of strangers who show each other their humanity are often heartwarming beyond belief.

Take Heidi Rubin’s story for example. She had been going through one of the worst times in her life before an Applebee’s manager was able to cheer her up. Her story was so inspiring that it went viral and ended up being liked over 10,000 times, shared over 1,000 times, and commented on over 450 times.

Just wait until you hear her remarkable experience at the all-too familiar neighborhood Applebees.

“Applebees, my husband and I visited your location in Summersville WV on Sunday. We were driving back to Beckley WV from Pittsburgh after the worst 3 days of our lives.

Our precious 6 week old baby girl was flown to Children’s hospital in Pittsburgh early Wednesday morning and passed away Saturday morning. We didn’t even know she was so ill until then.

“We sat at the bar and tried to keep our composure as we ordered. I was about to lose it so I went into the bathroom and began sobbing. One of your managers just happened to be in there. She asked if I was alright and patiently let me spill my soul to her. She let me cry to her and tried to comfort me. She made me feel better enough to return to my seat.”

Shortly after another manager came up to us and gave me a big hug and offered her condolences. As we were about to leave we asked for our check. I broke down when I read the note they gave us with it saying they covered our lunch. The bartender asked if she could give me a hug and I tearfully said yes.

I really wish I could remember their names. The last few days have been such a whirlwind that my mind is not a steel trap right now.

I wanted to thank all of them from the bottom of my heart. It’s such a small gesture that brought much needed light to a period of profound darkness in our lives. Their compassion will never be forgotten.”