Unsung Heroes #387

Carol Anne Ances writes:

My husband, Burt Grad, passed away at home 2 weeks ago.

I called 911. A wonderful crew of EMTs, firefighters and police answered my call, and took care of things.

James Sullivan

After Burt was pronounced dead they all left, except one police officer. Jim Sullivan stayed with me for an hour and a half, until Harding Funeral Home came to pick up Burt’s body.

Jim went way beyond what was required. He made me feel very comfortable and supported during a difficult time.

He continually talked with me. I feel I had a friend during that time. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without him.

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10 responses to “Unsung Heroes #387

  1. Moved to tears by this act of compassion and kindness and duty to our community. Thank you, Officer Sullivan. Carol, peace and love to you and your family.

  2. That’s a lovely story. Nice to know people can be so kind. 🙂

  3. Westport EMS is one of the town’s finest services. I have had to use them several times and have always been impressed with the care. Remember to support them on donation days.

  4. Hat tip to officer Sullivan. Class move!

  5. Susan weingarten

    How wonderful

  6. Cristina Negrin

    I love that ❤️I can’t imagine myself in the same scenario without anyone else in the room

  7. Susan LeDonne

    When passing occurs in home, believe SOP for police to remain in residence until individual removed. They did this for a neighbor years ago when her 108 yr old mother passed.

  8. Kate Sullivan

    That officer is my husband. That call meant something to him. I know he was happy to sit with her on that night. Sending love to Carol and thankful for people who are appreciative of my husband and the rest of the department who all lead with compassion. We are lucky to have such wonderful responders in this town.

  9. Carol Ann, I am sorry for your loss, and thank you for sharing this deeply moving moment. Officer Sullivan’s compassion reminds us how fortunate we are to have such dedicated individuals in the Westport Police Department. In a world that too often feels rushed and impersonal, this kind of authentic human kindness is rare, and especially meaningful.

  10. Toni Simonetti

    Thank you Carol for sharing this heartbreaking yet heartfelt moment. I am so very sorry for your loss but so very glad Officer Sullivan was there for you at such a painful time. And many thanks to Officer Sullivan for his compassion, and for making a difference.