For Midland employee Donnie Steeves, lending a hand when someone is in need is just common decency. Donnie was driving to work along Route 114 outside of Moncton, New Brunswick, when he saw a woman on the side of the road in distress. Allison Thompson-McAuley, a paramedic, was checking her mailbox at the end of her driveway when she slipped on ice and broke her leg. While a few cars drove past without stopping, Donnie didn’t think twice. “If you see someone who needs help, you should take the time to do it. It’s something everyone should do,” said Donnie.

He pulled off to the side of the road and helped Allison get back to her house. While their encounter was brief, Allison was extremely grateful and wanted to say thank you. Unfortunately, she realized once Donnie left that she didn’t get his name. She decided to post on a local Facebook page to see if anyone could identify the Good Samaritan who helped her. Donnie’s daughter saw the post and based on the details provided, wondered if it could be her dad. Knowing her dad’s selfless nature and the approximate time he would be travelling to work, she emailed Allison and confirmed her suspicions. Allison was then able to contact Donnie and send a thank you text. 

Approximately two weeks later, Donnie saw Allison’s car in the driveway and decided to stop in and see how she was doing. He joked that “she looked better smiling than crying.”

While Donnie never said a word about his actions to anyone, other than his wife, a few of his co-workers heard about the incident and nominated him for the Transportation Club of Moncton’s Humanitarian Award. “This wasn’t just an isolated incident. Donnie is always helping others. It’s just part of who he is. Donnie is an avid ATV and snowmobile rider. He does so much for other trail riders. He’s constantly working on warming huts, fixing up parts of the trails, bringing firewood and helping injured riders,” said Tony Coté, Midland Terminal Manager in Moncton. “He is extremely deserving of this award.” 

Even with the recognition he’s received, Donnie’s humbleness shines through. “I don’t like all this attention. It only took a few minutes of my time and it was the right thing to do.” 

About the Transportation Club of Moncton’s Humanitarian Award

Awarded to recipients for their unselfish efforts in improving quality of life by either performing an act of bravery, acting as a Good Samaritan or by volunteering in organizations whose mandate is to help other human beings.