Yes the true definition of Pay it Forward means the giver gets nothing in return from the receiver, but the idea is for the receiver to pay it to someone else in need. Your story is a great example of this. Imagine if we all did this a little more, they say your own kindness comes back to you tenfold, so even though the receiver isn't paying you back directly, the universe will find a way to smile on you. I absolutely love the idea of pay if forward. I have done something like pay for the car behind me at Dunkin Donuts, small things like that. It's fun to do nice things without expecting something back for it!
Cheers!
Rachel