When I describe what it’s like growing up in Cedar Springs, I always mention the small town feel and how people seem to be looking out for each other. If you grow up in Grand Rapids, it’s a hard thing to understand and even describing it can be a challenge. However, if you have lived in Cedar Springs you know just what I’m talking about.

I have never had a serious situation where I truly required someone to look out for me but there is always a time when it is going to happen. This winter has been one of the toughest and coldest we have had here in Michigan and sometimes the elements can get the best of us. This year, those same elements got to me.

The snow drifts and ice combination on Sunday, January 19, had me sliding off the road and into the ditch. I was pretty shook up; after all it was my first time ever sliding off the road. I was in once piece and so was my car. The thing that surprised me the most was the amount of people who stopped to make sure I was okay. I realize this probably happens a lot but I can’t imagine anything like this occurring in Grand Rapids.

Many of the people who stopped offered to stay with me until my neighbor arrived to pull me out of the ditch. I sent them on their way but two gentlemen offered to get their tow rope and to come back to make sure I was out. They arrived soon after my neighbor did and quickly hooked everything up and had me out in no time.

I want to personally thank everyone who stopped to make sure I was okay. I also want to thank the two gentlemen who helped not only get me hooked up to get out of the ditch but also on helping me drive out. I also want to thank my neighbor who was quick on the moment to come and help me. A big thank you to everyone who stopped to check on me and those who helped get me out. If it wasn’t for you all, I would probably still be in that ditch!

Tanya Giaimo, Courtland Township