8/30/2012 - West Side Leader
     

To the editor:

On July 18, my son and I were riding our bicycles in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. A pair of riders approached from the opposite side, riding side-by-side. As we moved to the side, my front tire caught on his back tire, and I fell over and my bike landed on me, shattering my ankle.

Many people stopped to offer their assistance. The next rider along the path was a young man who was identified only as an Akron city paramedic. He rendered first aid to me, assisted my son in calling the rescue squad, directed traffic around me and stayed with my son to wait for my husband to arrive to pick up my son and our bicycles. In the confusion of the situation, I was unable to get his name. I would appreciate assistance in obtaining his name, so I can personally thank him. He should be commended for his professionalism and dedication to service, even while he was off-duty. I deeply appreciate his kindness and compassion.

I would also like to thank the many, many people who stopped and offered their assistance. I would like to thank the awesome team from the Cuyahoga Falls paramedic squad for their excellent service. Also, I thank the Akron General Medical Center Emergency Department team for taking such great care of me. Last, but not least, my thanks and appreciation to the orthopedic surgical team at MetroHealth, where I work, especially Sue Snyder and Dr. Vallier for their outstanding work in putting me back together again.

It is really nice to know that in an emergency situation, old-fashioned caring and compassion still abounds!

With deep appreciation, Diane Altier, Richfield

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