I am writing this letter to the young man who crossed paths with us in Ferndale on July 12. When you walked into the establishment we were at, your odd behavior brought concern to everyone there.

My fiancé pulled something in his leg about a half hour before and was in excruciating pain and you walked up to him, never making eye contact and asked him what was wrong, so he told you. After looking down you said "I can fix it" and suddenly you grabbed his leg, which caused him great pain and instantly he reacted by shoving you away.

After this you were nowhere to be found but you left your half-zipped suitcase with clothes hanging out and a pillow in the alley. We noticed what looked like hospital discharge papers hanging out the top so, concerned, we called 911. The Ferndale Police promptly arrived and right away knew who you were and told us you had autism. Once located, they put you and your belongings in their patrol car and I assume brought you safely home.

While all this was happening my fiancé realized the excruciating pain in his leg was suddenly gone, thanks to you. The autism which hinders your social skills is the same autism that gives you the gift of wisdom and intelligence. Your ability to know exactly how to make his leg better was amazing. I do not know if we will ever cross paths with you again, but hope one day we will. Thank you my friend.

- Mandi Hollick of Ferndale, via Letters to the Editor

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