NAPLES, Fla — A Naples volunteer heroically saved a woman trapped in a submerged car early Tuesday morning, right outside a busy polling place.
Jackie Ardoline, a dedicated volunteer, arrived at Covenant Church of Naples to support Collier County School Board Member Stephanie Lucarelli. As she entered the parking lot, a shocking scene unfolded before her: a vehicle was partially submerged in water, and an elderly woman was precariously hanging out of the driver’s side window. The chilling sight sparked an immediate urgency within her.
Without a second thought, Ardoline sprang into action. She approached the vehicle, her heart racing, ready to confront the unexpected peril that lay before her. Nearby, others stood frozen by disbelief, but not Ardoline. In that moment, she embodied the spirit of community and compassion.
A campaign volunteer captured a harrowing image of the submerged car, a chilling reminder of the potential dangers that can lurk in everyday scenarios, even as people engage in civic duties like voting.
The Collier County Sheriff’s Office promptly arrived, and although the elderly woman was taken to the hospital, thankfully, she suffered no major injuries. A lucky break in what could have been a tragic accident.
Lucarelli praised Ardoline as an exceptional individual, referring to her as a hero. In a world often overshadowed by chaos, this act of bravery stood as a testament to the power of community spirit—forging bonds that extend beyond political endeavors.
Her act of heroism serves as a poignant reminder of how ordinary moments can ignite acts of extraordinary courage. After all, Naples is not just a scenic waterfront city; it is a community where people still step up to help each other in times of need. Jackie Ardoline’s quick thinking not only saved a life but also illuminated the profound connection that exists within our neighborhoods.
Perhaps this event encourages us all to reflect on our own capacities for kindness, particularly during moments that seem mundane. The incident might have left many shaken, but it also offered a glimpse of hope: every one of us has the potential to make a difference, even on election day when most are focused on their civic duties.
