I Was So Ill Walking Was Impossible As a Stranger Practically Supported Me to a Bathroom.

At the age of 19 years old, my regular journey to work involved an packed public transport. It remained jammed and invariably became standing room only by the time I stepped aboard.

During a certain commute, I was feeling terribly ill as the bus swayed around the bends. I continuously reassured myself to hold on just a little longer so the bus could got to my stop, so I could then rush hurriedly to the closest public toilet to throw up.

As we neared the road leading to the destination as I realised I was unable to make it. Suddenly, it felt as if a veil came over me. My vision turned blank and silent; as if someone cut the sound. I thought, “I’m going to faint”.

Fortunately, I stood toward the front inside the vehicle, allowing me to take a couple of steps toward the driver and told the operator to pull over, telling him I was going to vomit. He promptly opened the doors and I weakly exited out onto the street.

I was resolved to avoid being sick in front of a busy multi-lane road, so I forced myself up and began attempting to walk across to the park on the other side, where I believed I’d at least be able to discreetly hide near some foliage to vomit. But then I apparently blacked out. I could feel my physical self, yet I couldn’t walk or see clearly, so I began crawling towards my intended destination.

“You right, love?”

At that moment, I got scooped up. I felt a strong arm supporting me and a man’s voice asked, “You right, love?” I told this unknown man that I required to vomit. Thus, he practically supported my weight down into a close-by structure and guided me inside the women’s restroom. He asked me whether I required him to remain with me but I said no.

Not long after, I felt better enough to sit on the restroom floor and from outside the stall I heard him inquire, “Are you feeling better, dear? Is there anything you require?” I could not to stand up just then but I did succeed to say thank you and after a few more minutes was able to move my feet. I got myself home passing the following days getting over which was a severe stomach virus.

I never saw his features – only his legs and the big metal toolbox he was carrying – but he helped me, during a time when I was at my most vulnerable.

Many times, life can make you guarded, hostile, and combative. His act was the type of kindness that undoes that hardening of the heart. He served as evidence that humanity’s innate tendency is towards kindness, a trait I cherish about humanity.