Welcome to Milkweed and Monarchs. I’m Dawn Klem, and today, I share a story of resilience, love, and the unexpected ways in which people find each other.

This episode centers on Bud and Mary—a couple whose journey began with a simple phone call and grew into a lifelong partnership. Bud, a pilot with Wings of Mercy, dedicated his life to helping patients reach medical care they otherwise couldn’t access. Mary, a single mother in need of treatment at the Mayo Clinic, was one of those patients. What started as logistical coordination turned into something much deeper—a connection that led to marriage, advocacy, and unwavering support through life’s toughest challenges.

Mary’s diagnosis of a grade four glioblastoma tested their strength, but Bud remained by her side, caring for her until the very end. Their story is one of perseverance, faith, and the power of human connection.

Join me as I recount their remarkable journey and reflect on the lessons they taught me—about love, service, and the impact of standing by someone when it matters most.