When considering heroes, we often think of notable figures like doctors, firefighters, policemen, Mother Theresa, and the Pope. However, numerous everyday heroes go unnoticed. These unsung individuals are responsible for bringing positive change to our lives and the lives of others. Today, I would like to introduce you to an unknown everyday hero named Melyssa Haas.
Introduced at work just two years ago, Melyssa and I have realized the profound impact she has had on our lives and the lives of many women and children who are strangers to me. However, above all else, Melyssa’s top priority is her role as a mother. She takes pride in being the mother of two children: Issac, 5 years old, and Ava, 3 years old. Alongside her husband Brian, who serves as a youth pastor, they have been happily married for 7 years. Balancing family responsibilities with managing household tasks, Melyssa also juggles three jobs – waitress, cook, and counselor – while simultaneously pursuing a nursing degree.
She holds three jobs, which serve as her way to make a difference in the lives of others. I first met Mel when I started working as a waitress two years ago, and we instantly connected. As we discussed our lives and families, we found numerous uncanny resemblances. Both of us had been affected by the economy and had to rejoin the workforce. Additionally, we were both living far from our families while raising two children each. Moreover, we had both been married for nearly the same duration. However, there was one thing she was doing that I hadn’t tried yet.
Meeting her changed my belief that balancing a busy schedule, earning a business degree, and making time for family and friends was impossible. Witnessing her determination in working three jobs, attending school full-time, and still prioritizing her family inspired me to do the same. Although I quickly realized it wasn’t as effortless as she made it appear, she has consistently been a supportive friend whenever I needed someone to talk to. She assures me that all the stress will eventually be worth it and that success is within reach.
Her impact extends beyond my own experience. Mel exceeds expectations in her role as a cook at a youth facility. In addition to serving meals to troubled kids, she takes the initiative to engage with them on a personal level.
When in the presence of these children, Melyssa actively listens to their stories about their families and the difficulties they have encountered. The children know that they can trust her because she does not judge them based on who they are. It is important to note that she works as a counselor at teen parents, a facility specifically designed for homeless and troubled young mothers. When these girls find themselves without help from others, Melyssa is always there for them. She has sacrificed time with her own children to support these girls in making a new beginning and conquering challenges.
Every Tuesday night, Melyssa teaches the girls various skills such as baby care, budgeting, and cooking. She also provides extensive support beyond the classes. She accompanies them to numerous doctors appointments, stays with them at the hospital during labor when others do not show up, and spends time with some of the girls in the NICU. Additionally, if the mothers are homeless after giving birth, Melyssa assists them in finding housing.
While helping young mothers establish themselves, Melyssa goes above and beyond by opening up her home to care for their babies. She feeds, bathes, changes, and clothes the children as if they were her own. Despite having her own family and responsibilities, she consistently makes time in her busy schedule to inspire others and assist those who are less fortunate. Melyssa has positively impacted numerous individuals, myself included. Although she may not fit the traditional image of a hero, she serves as a heroic figure and a source of inspiration for many, including myself.
