Asking for Directions Left Beanie Baby Billionaire Tipping $20,000
Try not to get too depressed that the Beanie Baby guy is a billionaire -- at least he's using his money for good, rather than evil. Ty Warner recently gave a woman who was trying to raise money for a medical procedure $20,000 for giving him directions.Jennifer Vasilakos was in a Santa Barbara, Calif. parking lot attempting to raise money for a potentially life-saving stem cell treatment not available in the United States. Ty Warner pulled in when he got lost and the two discussed her health. He gave her a $50 check on the spot, and later sent her another one for $20,000.
Warner says that he gave her the money, not just because she needed it, but also because he hopes the publicity will raise awareness about stem cells, saying, "I was shocked that this particular type of treatment wasn't available to her in the US. ... My hope is that we can bring this lifesaving treatment to the forefront so that it can become more readily available and provide alternatives for people like Jennifer."
Vasilakos's kidneys failed, and she's ineligible for a kidney transplant because she's also had skin cancer. The stem cell treatment could greatly improve her health -- she currently has been spending about 14 hours a week in dialysis.
Who would have thought your commemorative Weenie the Daschund could one day help save a woman's life?