To the unnamed heroes and angels who were out on April 15:

My name is Sandra Merrill and for those of you who saw the article and pictures in the Niles Star my husband, Chris, and I were the two  that were in the black Chevy pickup involved in the head-on collision at 11th Street near the state line.

We both realize how incredibly lucky we were to not have sustained more serious injuries or even death on that day. I am so thankful to be able to write this heartfelt thank you for  all the people that stopped and helped us after the collision.

To the unknown gentleman that phoned 911 and told me to sit on the curb and do not move — thank you for being there.

For the off-duty firefighter and his wife, who held my head and my husband’s head with their hands so our necks would be supported, and continued to hold them until the EMTs got there —thank you.

For the police, and the EMTs who were so considerate and compassionate in doing their jobs and treating our injuries, and making us as comfortable as possible with what had just taken place — thank you.

To the woman who tried to find my glasses in the truck — thank you.

To those who stopped and observed from a respectable distance, I also thank you for giving us privacy and allowing us some time to process what had happened to us.

All of you are heroes and walking angels in my eyes. In this world where it is now becoming common practice to be self-serving, selfish and me, me, me, all of you have proven that selflessness, sharing and caring for others is still alive in Niles and this country.

I shall never forget what happened to us on that day, nor will I or my husband ever forget the day that changed our lives by allowing us to have the honor and privilege of having all of you touch our lives for that brief period of time.

Once again, thank you and may God bless all of you and keep you safe the rest of your lives.

Sandra Merrill

Granger