In life, we must learn what it means to be a good person. Every single day, we’re faced with various situations, conflicts, opportunities, and choices. It’s up to us to decide how we will react to the things we encounter. Will we choose to be ignorant and selfish, or will we choose to be a kind, giving, and altruistic individual?
16-year-old Palmer Ridge High School student, Hannah Dreher, made the right decision one day when she came across a 74-year-old woman who experienced an emergency.
Betty Williams, an elderly Palmer Lake, Colorado resident, was home alone one day when she slipped down the garage stairs. In serious pain and unable to get up due to a shattered femur, she used a broom nearby to open her garage door. For 20 minutes with the door opened, she called out for help.
Hannah, who happened to be playing volleyball nearby, didn’t know about the situation until she saw Betty’s dog, Rusty, running loose. On her way to return the dog to their owner, that’s when Hannah heard Betty calling for help and immediately came to the scene of her lying on the ground.
The girl dialed 911 and patiently waited with Betty until an ambulance arrived.
Betty was then transferred to the hospital, but that wasn’t the end of her interaction with Hannah. The 16-year-old girl was even there for her during her hospital stay.
“The young lady came to check on her while she was still at the hospital and also baked my mom cookies and came to visit once she was home,” Betty’s daughter, Judy Ankeney, said.
She’s so thoughtful!
But as many heroes and kind souls would tell you, they don’t do good things to get attention or some sort of award; they do it out of the goodness of their heart. Hannah is no different.
“It’s my passion. If you’re not doing something you love to do, you’re doing the wrong something,” Hannah said.
Her short statement speaks volumes, and she is wise and mature beyond her years. More people should take Hannah’s great advice!
Too often, people Hannah’s age (and even older) want to turn a blind eye to people in need, especially if they’re a complete stranger. They think, “Why should I care?” But what a poor attitude that is to have. This young woman is a prime example of what all people should be, regardless of their age. Her way of thinking will lead her towards a successful life and a heart full of joy.
To hear more of Hannah’s wise words, listen to an interview with Hannah and Betty below.
