A touching story from Idaho exemplifies the true spirit of giving this holiday season. Before her passing earlier this year, Kjerstin Cook, a devoted wife and mother, made a heartfelt request to a local Secret Santa, hoping to surprise her husband, Dustin Cook, with a meaningful gift.

Kjerstin, 46, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2024, after a courageous battle with ALS. In the weeks leading up to her passing, she wrote a letter to the Secret Santa, detailing her final wish for her husband. That letter, submitted on her behalf by a close friend, has since inspired many after being shared by East Idaho News.

In her letter, Kjerstin explained her situation, describing how ALS had left her a quadriplegic in need of full-time care. She used an iPad and eye-tracking technology to compose the message because ALS had taken her ability to speak.

“Unfortunately, I won’t be around in December, so hopefully, you will consider the request,” she wrote. Despite her struggles, Kjerstin’s focus was on her husband, whom she had known for 30 years and described as “the most giving [and] compassionate person I have ever known.”

Before her illness, the couple had saved money to create a backyard retreat—a dream that had to be put on hold as her medical needs became the priority. She asked Secret Santa for help, saying, “My request for Secret Santa is for Dustin to have a comfortable shady spot to read his book.”

Kjerstin’s friend, who submitted the letter, praised Dustin’s tireless care and support, noting that he “somehow managed to always comfort her,” even in her final months.

Moved by Kjerstin’s heartfelt letter, the anonymous Secret Santa arranged for up to $15,000 in landscaping work to transform the couple’s backyard into the serene retreat she envisioned for Dustin.

When the surprise was revealed, Dustin, a local police officer, was deeply moved. He had no idea his late wife had written the letter, and hearing it read aloud brought him to tears.

“I’m blessed beyond measure,” Dustin told East Idaho News. “I have no words to describe any of this, other than Kjerstin, this was so amazing. I’m blessed to have had her in my life for 30 years.”

Kjerstin’s obituary describes her as “fiercely devoted” to her husband and their three sons, Dustin, Dylan, and Dallas. She is remembered for her quick wit, sense of humor, thoughtfulness, and remarkable ability to bring joy through her gift-giving.

In a statement, Dustin reflected on his wife’s life philosophy: “Kjerstin had phrases on the wall of our home that said, ‘Do Good’ and ‘Believe There Is Good in the World,’ with the words ‘Be the Good’ highlighted.” He hopes her final act of love will inspire others to embrace kindness and generosity.

“She was incredible, super incredible,” Dustin added.

For more details on this heartwarming story, visit the original coverage by East Idaho News or read Kjerstin’s full obituary at Coltrin Mortuary.

Kjerstin Cook’s final wish was not for herself but for the husband who had stood by her side throughout her battle with ALS. Through Secret Santa’s generosity, her dream for Dustin became a reality, ensuring her memory lives on as a testament to selfless love and the importance of giving.

As Dustin put it, “I just hope this inspires others to do good.”