MOTHER SAYS DAUGHTER IS KINDEST PERSON SHE KNOWS

Lena Fuist has seen much in her 77 years. But when it comes to her favorite kind person, she doesn't have to look far."My daughter is the most caring, kind, uplifting individual I know," says Fuist. "She's a great inspiration to me."She isn't alone in her assessment.

For the past 11 years, Jan Rigdon has served as secretary at the Newman Center, the campus Catholic ministries at Southeast Missouri State University.

Neal Kluba, campus minister, says Rigdon is "the mom" of the center."If students have problems, they talk to Jan. Sometimes she types papers for the students. She drives them places. She's just a sweet, sweet lady," he said.

Rigdon is a patient listener and generous with her hugs. She invites everyone to sample the candy jar on her desk.

Kindness runs in the family. Her husband, Denis, volunteers with the Catholic charities at St. Vincent de Paul Church.

When it comes to her mother, Rigdon is always eager to help.

Last week she stopped by to take her mom to the doctor's office. Fuist has been unable to drive since 1997 after major surgery. She also shuttles her to Southeast Missouri Hospital where Fuist volunteers in the gift shop."My daughter is very unassuming," said Fuist. "She does something and forgets about it. She doesn't crow about it."This mother and daughter are close: They talk most every day -- in person or on the phone."That's what families are for," Rigdon said. "My mom did quite a bit to help me out when I was growing up. I don't look upon it as anything special."Fuist just feels lucky to have a daughter who practices kindness as a way of life."She's the nicest person I know, and I mean that from the bottom of my heart."