Woman seriously injured in a collision met up with the Trooper who assisted her during the ordeal

January 14, 2020

Katharine England

Vance Thu On Dec. 23, 2019, Cpl. Diane Vance responded to a serious personal injury accident in Sidney where Emily Thu had lost control of her vehicle and become grievously injured. Passer-by, John Kay, stopped to render assistance and comfort to Emily until help could arrive.

“To be honest, I’m not sure what made me stop. I think maybe just human nature. We all have it, it’s just a matter of whether or not you act on it,” said Kay in an email. “If you see that someone needs help, it really shouldn’t be a question. The events of that night will stay with me forever. Emily was in the vehicle in front of me when her accident occurred, there is no way I could have just continued down the road. For this, I am forever grateful.”

Kay noted the reason for his being out that evening was far from a happy one, as he was on his way to the emergency vet where he had to unexpectedly put his family dog down.

“But now we have a new friend from the outcome,” he said. “Emily will hopefully always be a part of our life.”

Cpl. Vance was able to provide first aid, including a tourniquet, staying with Emily and holding her hand during the ordeal. Thu was flown by LifeFlight to Lewiston, and while being treated, Thu requested a visit so she could thank Cpl. Vance. Cpl. Vance went in to CMCC on her day off to visit with Emily. Cpl. Vance also helped connect Emily with Kay who stopped to render aid and comfort. Kay and his wife have also been to visit Emily while she was in the hospital. We are happy to report that Thu was recently released from the hospital.

Thu Kay “[Kay’s] Presence kept me strong until responders arrived. I have developed a strong bond with John and his wife Lulu, and Cpl. Vance,” Thu said in an email. “This may seem like an ordeal to some, but it introduced me to some of the kindest people, and I am forever thankful for that.”