West Virginia Woman With Terminal Cancer Fulfills Wish as First Patron at New Taco Bell
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Pauline Monk, an 86-year-old Sissonville resident, was the first customer at a new Taco Bell in her hometown, a restaurant she had wanted for a long time. Diagnosed with terminal cancer in November 2025, she attended the opening six months later with assistance from her son, a state delegate who helped bring the franchise to the area. Fellow customers insisted she order first and refused to let her pay for her meal.
Facts First
- Pauline Monk was the first patron at a new Taco Bell in Sissonville, West Virginia, which opened on May 6, 2026.
- Monk has terminal cancer, having been diagnosed with Stage 4 lung and liver cancer in November 2025 and given a life expectancy of 2-3 months.
- Her son, a West Virginia delegate, assisted in bringing the Taco Bell to the area and helped his mother attend the opening.
- Customers at the opening agreed she should order first and refused to let her pay for her meal.
- Monk stated Taco Bell is one of her favorite restaurants and that she had wanted one in her area for a long time.
What Happened
On May 6, 2026, Pauline Monk, an 86-year-old resident of Sissonville, West Virginia, was the first customer at a new Taco Bell location in her hometown. Her son, a member of the West Virginia House of Delegates, assisted in bringing the franchise to the area and helped his mother attend the opening. Customers inside the restaurant agreed Monk should order first and refused to let her pay for her meal.
Why this Matters to You
This story highlights how community gestures... can hold significant meaning. It shows that local developments, such as a new restaurant opening, can fulfill long-held wishes for residents and become focal points for shared, positive moments. For anyone facing a serious illness, small joys and community support may be especially meaningful.
What's Next
The new Taco Bell is now open for business in Sissonville. Monk's story, shared by her granddaughter and reported by Upworthy, may inspire similar acts of kindness in other communities.