Last week as I walked my dogs, I came upon two gals in the parking lot of Marie Poburan School. A half-hour prior, a little kitten had darted out in front of a truck, narrowly escaping being hit.
In absolute fear it ran under a parked vehicle and into the engine. The lady who had almost hit the kitten pulled over and found the owner of the car and the two of them had been trying to entice the kitten to come out but to no avail.
I brought my dogs back and returned with some food and a cat carrier and after another half hour or more, I suggested we call the fire department. Within less than five minutes, a truck pulled up with five firefighters who were there to help us. I was so impressed with how caring and compassionate they were in their quest to rescue this little frightened kitten.
I think that sometimes we see the outward appearance, which is tough and strong and that is comforting no doubt. But when the young man gently pulled the kitten out of the engine and placed it in the carrier, I saw tenderness and compassion that was in my mind, a “Kodak Moment.”
No fire to put out, no people being saved, but a very grateful tiny kitten and three women who saw these wonderful firefighters as heroes. That is what makes a hero.
I shall forever remember that moment and hold our firefighters with the highest respect and honour. Thank you guys, you are the best.
Colleen Chupka, St. Albert
