I am 40 years old and I am from Red Deer. My life changed drastically for me in 2011 when a fall left me without the ability to walk.
Over the past three years, I have received tons of support from my family, friends, countless individuals and even strangers, including a very special lady from Innisfail by the name of Dawn Jensen.
I have really appreciated the amazing compassion I have received from so many, but on July 18 I was shocked and disappointed by the treatment I received after an incident in a Red Deer public washroom.
After I used the washroom, the toilet paper dispenser broke when I leaned on it. I tumbled onto the dirty floor. I could not reach my purse so I opened the door and asked a lady, who could clearly see my dilemma, if she could kindly just pass me my purse so I could get my phone. Without any reply she left.
Feeling helpless I became very frustrated and tearful wondering how I could get out of this mess on my own. Then another lady came in and I pleaded for her to pass me my purse.
After a very gruff, “just a second”, she attended to her business and left the washroom. After what seemed an eternity I was so relieved to see another lady come into the washroom. She immediately recognized my problem, expressed instant concern and offered to help.
She must've seen my reaction because I first assumed it would be too hard for her to help me because she was older. I was concerned that physically helping me could in turn hurt her. Then this sweet stranger informed me that she had worked for many years as a nursing care provider and reassured me that together we could get me back into the wheelchair.
While my special angel and I pulled and lifted I could tell immediately she knew how to do this. She had me off the floor and into the chair in one swift move. Once back into the chair, tears of relief streamed down my cheeks. I thanked her with all my heart and asked if I could hug her. We then hugged.
I felt a huge sigh of relief. I asked her name and she told me it was Dawn. I finally said goodbye to Dawn and I left the washroom and saw my worried dad.
I have since visited Dawn at the Sunset Manor in Innisfail where she works. I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for helping to bring that horrible experience to a happy ending and for so compassionately restoring my dignity.
Please take the time to extend a little kindness and help those you find in need. Or at least assure the person that you will get help. Each day can be a whole lot easier for all of us if we strive to extend compassion for each other.
Thank you. And thank you Dawn. You are a special heart, a true great Samaritan.
