Firefighter Jo proves a lucky break for Lorraine

LORRAINE Large has strolled along the coastal walking track near her Jan Juc home countless times over the years.
But, as fate would have it, she was on her regular walk in May of this year when she sidestepped on the narrow path to let a cyclist through and landed awkwardly on her foot, breaking her ankle.
In pain and uncertain how much damage was done, she slowly limped to the Jan Juc General Store about 300 metres away.
The kindness and care she received from that point on has prompted Lorraine to share her story in a bid to acknowledge those who came to her aid.
Number one on that list is professional firefighter and Jan Juc resident Jo Ambrosio.
Jo was out walking her dogs when she popped her head into the store and saw that Lorraine’s ankle was not in a good way.
“It was very much good luck for me that she was there,” Lorraine said of her rescuer.
“She instantly recognised that something was wrong and that I needed help.
“She said, ‘I’m a firey, I won’t kidnap you. I’ll take you home.”
Lorraine was full of praise for how Jo handled the situation, especially given social distancing restrictions.
She drove her home, advised on first aid and returned with bandages to strap the badly swollen ankle before Lorraine took a trip to the Epworth Hospital.
The pair reunited this week so that Lorraine could say a proper thank you in person.
Jo was quick to share the praise, saying Tameka and Jin from the General Store also played their part in taking care of the injured patient.
“Tameka was the one who initially helped Lorraine by offering her a seat while she tried to call her husband who, like most men, didn’t answer the phone,” she said, with a laugh.
Ironically, Jo has since been involved in helping another woman who also broke an ankle while on a beach walk.
“I just happened to be in the right spot at the right time,” Jo said humbly, shrugging off any suggestion of heroics.
“You just hope someone would help you in
that situation.
“Given the current environment it is amazing how the community here has come together.
“I would just say to people please don’t be afraid because of COVID to reach out and help people.
“We all need a helping hand every now
and then.”
As for Lorraine, she is extremely grateful and looking forward to getting back to her favourite walking spot now her moon boot is off.
“We moved here in 1964 and I couldn’t even count how many times I’ve done that walk since,” she said. “I know it so well and I love it.”