Published November 12th, 2008
Delivering Mail and a Helping Hand
By Cathy Tyson

It was Betty and Chuck Jenkins' lucky day. Turns out their regular carrier technician, Jeovani Abenoja is the Safety Captain of the Lafayette Post Office and is First Aid certified through the American Red Cross. Who knew those skills would come in handy on a recent Thursday afternoon?
Abenoja, 23, who has been working for the Postal Service since he was 19, was making the usual delivery rounds in a relatively remote area on the city limits. Chuck Jenkins, 85, a retired Captain of the SS Jeremiah O'Brien during World War II, had just suffered a fall in the backyard, cutting his leg, breaking two fingers and dislocating his thumb. Abenoja offered his assistance; Betty Jenkins gratefully accepted. "He's a fine young man, and was a great help," she said.
"The Jenkins and I have been good friends for over two years, and I'm glad I was able to do something nice for them, and show them how much I care. I would do it again in a heartbeat!" said Abenoja.
Jenkins was seen later that day by his regular physician, who put a cast on his right arm, but has now made a complete recovery. He is happy to demonstrate that he's regained his strong handshake, despite his injuries.
Not one to blow his own horn, Abenoja is mandated to report assistance, if given. There really are Good Samaritans out there, sometimes they're just undercover.



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