Dear editor,
Thank you for this opportunity to share my recent experience of the overwhelming and generous spirit of the people of the North Island.
On Friday, Sept. 19, I was involved in a serious car accident just south of Telegraph Cove while going to visit family in Port Hardy for the weekend. I am still in awe of the quick response and compassion shown to me by complete strangers.
From the doctor who was one of the first on scene, to Jen, the chaplain from California, who just happened to be there at the right time and freely offered to pray with me, to loggers and first aid attendants who stopped to lend a hand, to the firefighters, police, paramedics, nurses, doctors and hospital staff in Port McNeill who provided their excellent, professional care — I will be forever grateful.
For every voice and name I remember or have been told about, I am sure there are two more who I will never know. But you know who you are and my heart is filled with gratitude.
Thank you to firefighter Dacen, paramedics Rob and Jamie, to Dr. Armogan, Melanie, Pam, Gail, Krista and Joanne at the hospital, and of course to my North Island family who were the angels constantly by my side and in my heart before being transferred to Campbell River.
Daily I am reminded of how God was watching over me, and of how he was present in the many ordinary people who gave extraordinarily and generously of their time. I know that it must have been a very difficult and arduous task attending to me.
The things that went right for me, though, are just too numerous to list. I have a bit of recovery ahead of me, but I am continually heartened by and reminded of the kindness of people I will likely never meet again. Know that I am eternally grateful.
Warmly,
Sharon Anderson
Port Alberni