Jeremy is a designer for Calvin Klein. He has worked for his boss, Suzanne, for many years in multiple positions and capacities. They have a fantastic working relationship and have for a long time.
Earlier this year, Jeremy’ sister was diagnosed with a rare form of liver cancer and was given 6 months to a year to live. Jeremy and his sister have always been very close so this was devastating news. For the next several months, Jeremy traveled as often as possible from New York to Texas to spend as much time with his sister as possible, then flying back to go work.
As his sister got worse, death was imminent. In October, Suzanne called Jeremy into her office and said “I want you to buy a one-way ticket to Texas. Don’t come back until this is over. You need to be with your family right now.”
Jeremy got to spend several weeks with his sister before she passed away. He said, “[Suzanne] gave me a gift that I can never re-pay.”
I wanted to highlight a story that shows bosses and employees can be loyal and supportive of each other. We can treat each other as human beings and love each other through the hardest times of our lives. It is called the human experience. This story exemplifies when the work environment and culture are at their finest.
For all the great bosses and employees out there, keep up the good work. And for Suzanne? You are the epitome of the greatest boss ever. Nice work!