Former Gaines Students Show Support for Secretary Battling Cancer [VIDEO]

I get it if you can't make it through this video with dry eyes. We couldn't. Dozens of former Gaines Elementary students gathered yesterday (6/14), on the last day of school, to show support for Sandy Gibbons.

Gibbons has served as school secretary at the Swartz Creek School for 17 years, and is in a battle for her life. Again. She conquered cancer a dozen years ago, and is once again coming face-to-face with this insidious disease.

When I say that Sandy's been the school secretary for 17 years, that barely scratches the surface. She has been called the glue that holds the building together. She was there for -- in so many ways -- my boys as they made their journey through elementary school. She's also been a beloved coworker, confidant, and most of all dear friend to my wife, as they've worked together for 12 years.

Former students used social media to spread the word of yesterday's gathering. They congregated in the school's cafeteria, surprising Sandy with hugs, flowers, and warm wishes, as she rolled in.

"These are my babies, and it's so great to see them," she told ABC-12. "They give me hope."

Pictured above is Sandy Gibbons alongside my son Nick. Sandy, on behalf of all of the McIntyres, you have our love and support as you face this battle head on.