Recently, I came across an inspiring story on roster.com about Cody Drummer, a man who survived a terrible accident last November thanks to the quick actions of local firefighters and paramedics. Although Cody couldn’t recall most of the individuals involved in saving his life, he made it his mission to meet them and express his gratitude. Recently, he finally had the chance to do so.
When I heard this story, I couldn’t help but think about how much we often take first responders for granted. Cody’s experience really highlighted their dedication and selflessness. On that day, Cody arrived at the Cherry Valley Fire Protection District Station 2 in Rockford with his mom and his wife, Cassidy, who is nine months pregnant with their daughter due in June. As soon as he stepped out of the car, about a dozen firefighters and paramedics were waiting for him.
Cody was in a wheelchair due to his injuries, which included a broken leg and a neck brace, but his heart was full of appreciation. He greeted each of the first responders with heartfelt thanks, shaking their hands and expressing how grateful he was for their efforts. His wife, Cassidy, couldn’t hold back her emotions as she spoke about the prayers she had offered during those early days after the accident. “These people will always have a special place in our hearts,†she said, tears streaming down her face. She added, “Knowing that Cody will be here for our child makes this moment even more meaningful.â€
The accident occurred on November 9th when Cody was driving a garbage truck along Baxter Road. A pickup truck crossed over into his lane, causing a collision that pushed his truck onto its side. While one passenger in the truck was unharmed, Cody was trapped underneath. With the help of a Maggio’s tow truck and the quick work of Cherry Valley firefighters, who spent nearly an hour cutting him free, Cody was eventually airlifted to the hospital. Teams from Cherry Valley, New Milford, and Stillman Valley fire departments were all involved in the rescue operation.
Cody explained, “I just wanted to say thank you. These folks didn’t have to take on this kind of responsibility—they do it because they genuinely care about saving lives. They’re true heroes, and I’ll never forget what they’ve done for me.†To make the encounter even more memorable, a LifeFlight helicopter, similar to the one that airlifted him from the crash site, landed in the parking lot so Cody could get a closer look at the aircraft that had played such a crucial role in his rescue.
One of the first responders Cody met was Steve Reuss, a firefighter and paramedic with Cherry Valley. Steve was the first person to speak with Cody at the scene and later transported the other driver involved in the crash to the hospital. It turns out that this is only the second time in Steve’s 20-year career that he’s been able to reconnect with someone he helped save. “It’s rare to actually see the outcome of your work,†Steve admitted. “Nowadays, with privacy rules, it’s hard to follow up on cases like these unless you hear something in the news.â€
Lt. Lane Person from the Stillman Valley Fire Department was also present at the scene. Interestingly, he works part-time for a private ambulance service that has driven Cody to various medical appointments. “Being here today makes me incredibly proud,†Lane shared. “I’m so thankful to still be alive to share moments like this with my family.â€
Stories like Cody’s remind us of the incredible sacrifices made by emergency responders every single day. Their courage and commitment inspire us all, and their actions truly make a difference—not just in saving lives, but in bringing hope and healing to families like Cody’s.
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