Community Corner
Driver Searches For 'Turtle Rescuer' In Orland Park
A senior citizen driver who watched the saving of a turtle on a busy road in Orland Park has taken to the internet to find the hero.
ORLAND PARK, IL — A driver who witnessed a young man step into harm's way to save a large turtle from Orland Park traffic is looking for the reptile's hero.
Patrick Costello, 74, was driving westbound on 143rd. Street near Crystal Tree just around 9 a.m. on Wednesday, when he noticed eastbound traffic at a halt. Then he spotted it—a very slow-moving rescue taking place. A young man was trying to assist a very large turtle off the roadway and to safety.
"...By the time I was able to turn around traffic eastbound was jammed up and I couldn't reach the site," Costello said. "This young man was by himself and I thought it such a brave and kind gesture."
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Costello doesn't know the outcome nor the young man who came out of his shell to help the turtle—which he estimates was about a foot in diameter—and took to the internet to search for him. He posted a note on the "Missed Connections" section of CraigsList, a place usually reserved for unfulfilled romantic interests or notes from secret admirers. Costello's note was short, but sweet.
"Just want to acknowledge the young man who stopped traffic to help large turtle get across the street...so nice to see a caring soul....made my day....hope he was ok..." Costello wrote.
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The reaction has been touching and a bit surprising, Costello told Patch.
"... I'm receiving responses from people who didn't witness any of it, but just reading my posting has touched their hearts and that as well makes my day better," he said. "It's such a nice human interest story that seems to make people feel good and we need that so much these days. ... that this kind lad was young makes it even better... provides HOPE for the future."
Still, he's hoping someone can connect him with the one who took the time to help such a smaller soul. He hopes for the safety of both the savior and the saved, and that others enjoy the story.
"I hope it brings people a sense of kindness and compassion in their lives."
Do you know who rescued the turtle? Was it your son, your brother, your friend? Email Patch at lauren.traut@patch.com!
Photo By Cory Woodruff/Shutterstock.com
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