LETTER: Framingham Man Thanks Boston Politician for His 'Samaritan Deeds'

I met (Boston City Councilor) Felix (Arroyo) and his lovely wife Jasmine for the first time Thursday. It was not under the best of circumstances, considering I was splayed out on the sidewalk on Longwood Avenue after crashing my bicycle.

I live in Framingham, and my wife is at a Boston hospital recovering from surgery.

I'm also participating in the Pan Mass Challenge, which is on Aug 4.

So, as a way to both get a training ride in, as well as to be able to spend more time with my wife, I decided to ride into Boston.

As I was coming down Longwood Ave., I crashed my bike into the sidewalk. Felix was in a car behind me, and he stopped to see if I was ok. He could see that I was a bit shaken up, and also, that I had cuts and scrapes on my arms so he used my water bottle to clean off the dirt on my arms. He then asked if he could help me get to where I was going, and so I told him about where I was going, and why. He then put my bike in his car, and graciously offered to take me. Jasmine was very sweet, and very empathetic as well.

When we got to the hospital, and I thanked him for his Samaritan deeds, he told me who he is.

There are many examples of politicians who get negative press for doing terrible things. However, here's an an example of a selfless act of kindness that has truly touched me.

My family has had a difficult journey over the past several months, and for Felix and Jasmine to do what they did for me is truly appreciated.

Thank you Felix. 

Tim MacDonald