by Bob Stealey

Editor

It's always gratifying for a community to be recognized and appreciated by out-of-state residents when they have something really nice to say about the area. Clarksburg was the subject of such words of praise last month from Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Kenoe of Aiken, S.C.

Mr. Kenoe, I'm rather certain, will remember Clarksburg, W.Va., for some time to come, as he had a "noteworthy" experience while in the city. He opened his letter to me by saying, "The purpose of this letter is to thank the community of Clarksburg, WV."

He continued, "My wife and I were off on vacation from Aiken, S.C., to Toronto, Canada. On Tuesday evening -- (apparently July 17) -- I developed pain and soreness on my right side. The next morning, we 'pulled off' at Clarksburg, WV, seeking medical relief.

"While feeling my way, I was 'lighted over' by a traffic policeman. Quickly explaining my need, he directed me to urgent care: 'Third right beside McDonald's.' I left him with a 'get well quickly.'"

At urgent care, he stated that he met Dr. Romano, a confident and patient listener.

"He ordered blood counts from his office, confirming excessive white counts. He quickly added, 'Could be appendicitis.'

"We decided to have further tests at United Hospital Center, this time more definitive. 'Impacted appendicitis.' Dr. Romano suggested two general surgeons and selected Dr. Victor Villarreal. I checked into UHC on Wednesday (and had) surgery that evening, and the next morning (was) on the way to recovery."

Mr. Kenoe added in his letter, "Dr. Villarreal and Dr. Romano are skilled physicians and a real contribution to the medical community -- one the community should cherish."

He mentioned that he and his wife were alone in Clarksburg, "but we were so blessed to meet Bill and Drema Snyder from Clarksburg. Bill was my roommate. Sometimes, you are so directed by the Lord it confounds you. We spoke of the love of Jesus Christ. 'Do not be afraid. Come, follow me, for I love you.'"

The South Carolinian further told me, "Bill and Drema were so uplifting, so full of care during the three-day period. (But) I do not want to miss my point. They were more than lifesavers, crutches, etc. They are true lovers of mankind, cemented in the beliefs of strong community, honesty, solid citizens and, most important, lovers of Clarksburg.

"They reminded of pure and simple expression of care, reaching out to lead and help. What extraordinary representatives of Clarksburg and our beloved country. I cannot leave this chapter of my life without thanking Bill and Drema, United Hospital Center and Drs. Romano and Villarreal."

Then he made a very important point. We attend parades, which swell our community and country pride. We attend our churches, which swell our devotion to the Lord. But we seldom pause to salute a community, Clarksburg, WV, which came together to welcome strangers.

"My heartfelt thanks to Clarksburg its citizens and its way of love and life."

Mr. Kenoe left his address, and I take this liberty to include it: J.A. Kenoe, 276 Forest Pines Road, Aiken, S.C. 29803.

Editor Bob Stealey can be reached by phone at 626-1438, or by e-mail at rstealey@exponent-telegram.com