I submitted the article because it reminded me of a pattern of good-spirited customer service I've had from Apple.
It's a lesson in how to treat customers in a way that rewards their humanity. The end result is that this guy and his wife will likely be Apple customers for life. That's likely upwards of 30 years of loyalty for the cost of a single iPad.
I'm sorry I didn't add this comment the moment I submitted the story, but I figured most people would take away what they came with. Good question! And feel free to stay skeptical and have high standards. Let your snob flag fly!
/takes off his snobbish cape