On June 17 raging tornadoes put the fear of God in us Minnesota and Iowa residents. When the town tornado warning siren sounded, I quickly got myself nestled down in my basement. I stayed under the stairwell in a corner on a bench for 2 1/2 hours. The following day I was shook up and saddened to hear and read about all of the devastation mother nature caused. My heart went out deeply for the loss of lives, injuries, homes, etc. that were destroyed by this power beyond our control.

I had major surgery on my right ankle on June 23 at 7:30 a.m. My doctor, Michael Eckstrum, gave me strict instructions to have no weight on my foot for six to eight weeks. I live alone, and when I heard we might be getting another tornado, I though I should have a safety plan lined up. My 88-year-old mother, Jean R Tostenson, gave me the fire deptartment’s number. I called it, and the firefighters were very kind, nice and helpful. They gave me the Albert Lea Police Department’s numbers but also said if I can’t get help to call them back again as they all might be out, if the tornado comes our way. I had on Channel 12 news and the local radio station. The TV station and radar stated to immediately get to shelter that the tornado was headed straight to Albert Lea (again). I panicked.

My next door neighbor, Wendy Fordness, came over and tried hard to get me to the basement, but we couldn’t do it. The sirens were going off; the stress was high. Wendy returned to her home. I called the ALPD and I told the dispatcher I can’t walk and was home alone and helpless. The dispatch lady told me someone would be out soon. Rescue workers worked quickly but carefully and got me down my steps to the basement without hurting or touching my foot to the floor. The rescue workers ran back upstairs to bring my wheelchair, walker and a chair to elevate my leg. The “angels” also brought me down water, a sweater and my mobile phone.

Before leaving they asked me if I had a flashlight. I told them I dropped mine about two weeks ago and it deosn’t work. The men left me a flashlight to borrow in case my power went off. The men told me when it was safe they would come back for me. I stayed in the basement for two hours praying for humanity, Albert Lea residents and family and friends. I prayed God would not allow a repeat of Thursday the 17th’s monster tornadoes. My neighbors, Bernette and June Anderson, and friends came to check on me at the same time the rescue workers came. I was brought back up and am now nestled in my recliner without a scratch. After I was alone again, I reflected on what just happened and I thanked God again for the wonderful community we live in; with dedicated servants such as the fire, police and rescue workers, hospital workers and all caring people who help in one way or another. It is so true; a friend in need is a friend indeed. Thank you each and every one of you.

Mary Corrello

Albert Lea