A Pasco County woman traveled 5,000 miles across the country to thank first responders and veterans.

When Patricia Gavros wants to remember her last special journey, she turns to some of the first responder patches given to her while on the road weeks ago.

“Just remembering some of the places I stop at,” Gavros said.

The first responder patches remind Gavros of the smiles she left on the faces behind the patches.

“It’s thrilling, you get into your car and when you leave, it just brings tears to my eyes,” she said.

Gavros knows words are powerful, but actions speak louder -- which is why she decided to travel across the country to personally thank veterans and first responders for their service.

In 21 days she was able to visit 19 states and drive through 42 cities.

“I would just buzz over and ring their bell and say, 'Hi! I’m on a 5,000-mile journey and I just wanted to come in and tell you, 'thank you,'” Gavros said.

Gavros handed out gratitude cards to veterans and certificates of appreciation to first responders. Each got small acrylic red hearts as a symbol of being the heart of America.

“They represent the best of America -- they are the backbone of America,” she said.

Touched by her gesture, patches, challenge coins, hugs and big smiles were given to Gavros at every mile.

“It’s a two-way street. I think I actually get more than what I give, just spiritually and emotionally, and it just makes you feel like this is one of my purposes,”  she said.

Delivering her thanks in person is Gavros’ way of putting a stamp on her appreciation notes to the men and woman in uniform.

Even though Gavros would have loved to have traveled the country to show her appreciation, her limited means allowed her to only visit a portion of the country.

She hopes her gesture echoes how most Americans feel about their first responders and veterans.