As her husband fights cancer, teacher gets heartwarming surprise from a Secret Santa in front of class
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A local Secret Santa is giving $1 million to deserving people in eastern Idaho this holiday season. Every day, from now until the end of the year, the East Idaho News elves will be delivering gifts from Secret Santa and we’ll be sharing the surprise videos here.
When Charlotte’s husband, Shawn, was rushed to Utah this fall after a routine blood test revealed dangerously high white blood cell counts, their world turned upside down.
Shawn was flown to Huntsman Cancer Institute in September after doctors discovered his count had reached 170,000 — far above the normal range of 2,000 to 12,000. By the time he arrived in Utah, it had climbed to 190,000. He was soon diagnosed with chronic leukemia.
After weeks of treatment, Shawn was able to return home to Idaho Falls, but his fight is far from over. He faces a long road ahead with ongoing treatments and frequent trips back to Utah for checkups.
Through it all, Charlotte has remained a steady source of strength for her husband and their two children, ages 5 and 8. She continues teaching at Snake River Montessori School, where she leads upper elementary grades, teaches music, and directs the school’s chimes choir. After school, she gives piano and voice lessons and volunteers for the school’s summer programs and fundraisers.
“She’s the first one to help others and never asks for help for herself,” one friend said. “Charlotte gives everything she has — to her students, her friends, and her family.”
Secret Santa asked the East Idaho News elves to pay Charlotte a visit with an early Christmas gift. Check out the surprise in the video player above!
