To the Editor:

In the midst of all the tragedy and sadness we’ve all been dealing with I want to share some good news.

Throughout the global pandemic I have been fighting cancer. It’s been a terrifying journey but I’ve found solace in the little things and routines, including ordering takeout from the Nostrano Italian Eatery in Newtown.

My medical appointments, surgeries, chemo and radiation treatments took a toll on me and there were times I did not want to even get out of bed. But thinking about getting to enjoy some amazing Italian dinners helped me carry on.

Friday, May 22, was a very special day for me — my last day of radiation. Obviously, I planned to celebrate with dinner from Nostrano’s.

On a previous visit, I had explained to one of the employees how much the restaurant had meant to me during my journey.

After radiation at Yale Smilow Cancer Center, I received my certificate of completion. I picked up a thank you cake from the bakery to bring to the staff at Nostrano’s but — little did I know — they had a surprise waiting for me. I arrived at the restaurant [and] I was told my order was a gift to me to celebrate my last day of my cancer treatment.

My eyes filled with tears. In the midst of shutdowns, social distancing, and canceled events, this local restaurant went the extra mile to show me that I was important.

I am so grateful and I hope we can all remember to look to see the good news all around us.

Juanita Castillo

Milford Point Road, Milford June 9, 2020