Disabled Vet's Bike Gets Stolen, His Community's Response is Amazing
Criminals aren’t exactly known for adhering to a moral code, but there are some lines even they won’t cross in a strange attempt to hold on to some form of human decency.
Unfortunately, these folks seem to be in the minority these days, especially when they start stealing from disabled veterans.
An army vet had his specialized bicycle stolen recently, and while that’s a tragic tale in and of itself, our story here actually has a happy ending.
Curt Payne, a Manchester, New Hampshire, resident, was permanently disabled after a near-fatal car accident in 2001.
Now he spends his time volunteering for the city and picking up trash from public places.
Payne got around on a specialized bicycle — that is, until a thief made off with the bike and left Payne without transportation.
Payne — who locals call Major — put over 900 miles on his bike last year, and thanks to the love and kindness of his local community, he might be back in business for another 900.
WBZ reported that Payne’s story went viral on social media, and some in the community came forward to show their admiration and generosity by offering to replace Payne’s stolen bicycle.
Payne’s former boss said one person is going to donate $500 and he himself would offer up $250, noting others, complete strangers, made donations as well.
Two siblings ended up raising some cash for Payne by doing a lemonade stand.
Because of these efforts, it appears Payne will have the funds needed to purchase a bike in the upcoming days.
This is a beautiful story of how communities can love and respect one another, caring for each other and being willing to help whenvever a need arises.
Here’s to hoping more of this way of thinking spreads across America and the issues that divide us lose their power.
Source: TheBlaze
