This was given to me by a stranger when I was eight months pregnant, and it completely changed my life.

Eight months pregnant, I gave my seat on a tram to a tired woman carrying a baby. When she got off, she slipped a damp envelope into my bag. Inside was a desperate note asking for help for her baby, Isla, just two weeks old, along with a hospital bracelet and her name—Anika Rawlins.

Shaken, I alerted the police, who took Isla into care. Days later, Anika turned herself in, explaining she fled an abusive partner and saw me as a lifeline.

I met her at a shelter, and from that moment, we stayed connected. When my son Elias was born weeks later, Anika was the first visitor. Today, Isla calls me “Auntie,” and Anika is rebuilding her life.

Sometimes, a small act of kindness can start a whole new chapter—for both of you.