An appreciation – by accident
To the Editor,
As we begin the year 2021 with so many past-year negatives on our minds (COVID-19), I decided to share some positive feelings recently sparked by two strangers in Swarthmore.
On my way to do some Christmas shopping in the Ville, I had an automobile accident. The good part of that was that I met two wonderful helpers.
The event was mentioned in the police blotter of the December 25 edition of the Swarthmorean.
It was my misfortune to hit a large truck which was parked on the right side of Walnut Lane. It was mid-afternoon, and the bright sunlight caused me to not see the parked truck until it was too late to avoid it. The front of my car collided with the corner of its rear bumper.
Exiting my car, I stood on the green grass, upset but not injured. A young man was walking down the sidewalk and noticed I was a lady in distress. He checked my car and then walked quite a distance to locate and bring back the truck driver. Upon returning, he phoned the Swarthmore police department and remained with me until their arrival. He was, indeed, a hero!!
My other “Appreciation – by accident” award goes to heroic police chief of Swarthmore, Raymond C. Stufflet, who soon arrived. He calmly inquired how I was feeling and then requested facts about the accident. When he completed his report, he examined both vehicles, returned to me and mentioned my responsibilities for repair and insurance. When all of the details were complete, he drove me in his police car to my retirement home. Once we arrived, the chief thoughtfully commented that I should relax the rest of the day. Another Hero!
My family of six were residents of Swarthmore for many years. Two of my sons still live in the town. It is comforting to me that there continues a kindness, a caring, in spite of the sorrow and hardship brought to us by the virus. I hope 2021 brings every person a sense of appreciation, many blessings, and gratitude to the scientists, nurses, and doctors who are doing their best to keep us healthy.
Happy New Year! And, yes, I wear sunglasses now!
Carolyn Hopson
Wallingford
