A routine traffic stop by a police officer turned into an inspirational moment for all involved.
Ashlye V. Wilkerson posted the touching story on LinkedIn.
“It was a really beautiful moment for me to see this take place between my dad and the officer,” Wilker
Wilkerson was on her way to home in Columbia, South Carolina with her father, Anthony “Tony” Geddis, after he completed a round of chemotherapy at Duke University Medical Center.
“We heard a siren and saw a blue light coming behind us,” she wrote.
The 39-year-old woman realized she was caught in a speed trap.
“When asked by the officer, I apologized and admitted that I didn’t see the change in the limit. I immediately complied and provided my license and registration upon request,” she said.
Despite being weak from his chemo, her dad was quick to defend her driving.
Trooper Jaret Doty nodded and went back to his car.
The next few moments led her and many readers to tears.
When he came back, he asked you if he heard correctly that you had cancer. Once you confirmed, the officer took a deep breath. He sighed and said that he too had loved ones who battled cancer as well. He asked if he could pray with you. You welcomed the prayers with gratitude and informed him that you’re a deacon of your church. You proudly shared your love for Christ and your belief that God’s will would be done. When you all were done, there was a small silver cross that he placed in your hand for you to keep with you as a symbol of your faith.
I asked you what made you share your health and you responded that you would never want me to be penalized for taking care of you.
Though I told you that I didn’t mind accepting the consequences and would be totally fine paying the ticket, you said that you wouldn’t want it on your conscious.
The officer gave me my items with a warning ticket that day, and said that he would continue to pray for you on your journey.
You didn’t know I captured this picture in the moment but I did it so it could continue to remind me of two things:
1- You always protected me even through your final days; and
2- You were a fighter, firm believer in Christ, and a praying warrior.I’m so grateful for your love, guidance, and example. Heartfelt thanks to this officer who prayed for and with you that day.
Wilkerson’s father died from cancer two months after the stop.
She told CNN that her father kept the cross that Doty gave him close by his bed.
“My mom gave it to me after he passed,” Wilkerson told the outlet. Now she keeps it on her dresser as a reminder.