Imagine finding yourself in a difficult situation at the age of 92. That’s exactly what happened to Mary Summers from Texas. After running over a nail, she discovered that one of her tires was punctured. Seeking help at Integrity Tires in Richmond, Texas, Mary was taken aback when she learned that the repairs were beyond her financial means.
But little did she know, a guardian angel was quietly sitting behind her, attentively listening to their conversation. Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Trooper Drew Stoner was there, and he couldn’t ignore Mary’s predicament.
Drew Stoner approached the desk behind Mary and discreetly left her with a heartwarming surprise before departing from the store. He informed the mechanic, Omar Oregueda, that Mary would receive four new tires at no cost, completely covering the expense. When Mary was eventually informed, her eyes widened in shock and gratitude.
Not only did Omar arrange for the tires to be replaced, but he also decided to perform a kind gesture of his own – a free oil change for Mary. He emphasized the importance of individuals caring for one another, highlighting the significance of strangers helping strangers.
News of this heartwarming act of kindness quickly spread, with people hailing Trooper Drew Stoner as a true American hero. And it’s not the first time he has been recognized for his bravery and dedication. In the previous year, he was honored with the Medal of Valor, the highest accolade awarded by the DPS. He apprehended a gunman and saved a woman with gunshot wounds before his shift even began, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to serving and protecting the community.
When Trooper Stoner visited Mary at home, overwhelmed with gratitude, she wanted to express her appreciation for the officer who had unexpectedly come to her rescue. But Trooper Stoner humbly explained that his actions were not motivated by seeking attention but rather driven by a genuine desire to protect Mary and other drivers on the road. He envisioned the potential danger that could arise if Mary continued driving with worn-out tires, and he simply couldn’t ignore that risk.
Filled with joy, Mary embraced Trooper Stoner and exclaimed, “I’m so grateful for you! I’m very happy. To meet someone with such a great heart makes me proud.”
This heartwarming story reminds us of the importance of people helping one another regardless of the circumstances. It’s acts of kindness like these that define a true hero. Let us express our gratitude for Trooper Drew Stoner’s selflessness and acknowledge how fortunate we are to have dedicated officers like him in our police force.
