As a residential contractor, Michael Bowers has worked with his hands his whole life.

The 55-year-old Niles man knows how to build a concrete pathway, replace a window and put down a new driveway.

So to see others doing that for he and his wife, Melody, on Friday, brought about mixed emotions.

“It is difficult to articulate because this is what I’ve been doing my whole life,” he said. “But it really is a blessing. I can’t think of a better word than blessing because these things might never have gotten done. We are so grateful.”

Last July, Bowers was diagnosed with stage four cancer.

Since then, he has been undergoing chemotherapy treatment that has left him unable to work and do the other things most people take for granted.

That is why the Wolverine Pipe Line company of Niles chose to help the Bowers family during its second annual “Day of Caring” Friday.

About a dozen men volunteered their time to do work in and around the Bowers’ home, including graveling the driveway, putting in a new concrete walkway, painting portions of the home, trimming trees and more.

David Brooks, of Wolverine Pipe Line Niles, said it is just one way he and his coworkers can show that there are people out there who care.

“We want them to know they don’t have to walk this road alone,” he said. “All of us know someone who has had cancer. We want to bring some sunshine into what is a cloudy picture for them.”

The day of caring was coordinated by the Berrien County Cancer Service, a United Way funded partner non-profit devoted to helping cancer patients in southwest Michigan.

“Michael’s spirit is one of determination and strength and I affectionately call Michael and Melody my ‘M&M’s,’” said Renee’ Reid-Smith, of the BCCS. “I am so honored to do community outreach that impacts our patients in such a very tangible way by working with our community businesses such as WPL that are willing to ‘adopt’ a BCCS patient to create a healing environment for them so that they can concentrate on their physical healing.”

Milano’s Pizza, of Niles, catered lunch for the workers and the Bowers.