Michiganite donates to local student’s cause

Suzanne Stewart
Staff Writer

When Veronica Setera, of Michigan, heard about the flooding in West Virginia, she wanted to offer her assistance. She just didn’t know how.

She contacted her good friend, Helena Gondry, of Droop Mountain, who sent Setera an article that had been published in The Pocahontas Times, “GBEMS student collects school supplies for disaster victims.” Setera was so impressed with Gage Wilson’s efforts that she planned a trip to Pocahontas County to meet the sixth grader and add supplies to his collection.

Monday morning, Setera and Gondry arrived at Green Bank Elementary-Middle School and met Gage and his father, Billy. Setera commended Gage for collecting supplies to help students, and she wanted to help, too.

“This was really unique, thinking about the students,” she said. “Of course, school is starting, what are we going to do with the kids?”

After transferring her donations to their truck, Gage and Billy talked with Setera about her journey to meet Gage.

“I’m still impressed with you,” she told Gage. “You are very wise for your age. I’d love to see you when you grow up and see what you become.”

Gage told Setera he hopes to become a veterinarian.

Along with the school supplies, Setera said she has a special gift for Gage because he spent so much time thinking of others that he didn’t get anything for himself. The gift will arrive in a few weeks, though Setera would not reveal what it is.

After a long visit, Setera wished Gage luck in school and said she hoped to hear from him soon. Setera left knowing she made a difference in the lives of students in West Virginia, and made a new friend in Gage.

Suzanne Stewart may be contacted at sastewart@pocahontastimes.com