The upside of a broken kneecap

2 weeks ago

To the editor:

On March 6, I introduced my kneecap to the pavement. Gary and Edwina Cook pulled up to the curb. Gary said, “You need help. We’re here.” He assisted me and we managed my dog home. Another driver stopped to offer aid. Edwina turned the car around and met us in my driveway. The Cooks took me to Cary radiology. They waited for me as I was wheeled to the emergency room. They drove to the drugstore and picked up meds. They dedicated three hours to a stranger with no questions asked. I will know them forever.

On March 7, I was scheduled for a 9 a.m. appointment at Pines Orthopedics. A former colleague at Caribou High School took me. I emerged from the appointment and asked if she could bring me meds and bags of ice. She has made numerous shopping trips for me and continues to supply me with the most amazing food. Two nurses provided me with phone numbers. Told me to call if I needed anything. One, a neighbor, followed me home to help me inside and fed me.

Neighbors heard and offered support. Two breathtaking families have been walking my dog every day and so very much more. The gentleman who in 2013 was my principal at the high school arrived and offered support.

Many of these people are busy professionals with families. Others are retired and tend to their families and lives. Postmen and sanitation men accommodated. Pines Health, 100-year-old fellow person in need and responded with the highest instincts of humanness — compassion, love and care. This event reminded me of the abundance of goodness. I needed that. I am forever grateful. Thank you.

Pat Karpen
Caribou