Help on the Freeway

* On the evening of Oct. 19, my husband and I were driving home from the Music Center (he at the wheel). We were in the fast lane, just past the interchange, near Laurel Canyon.

Without any advance warning, we were suddenly headed for the median wall. I quickly realized that something was wrong when I heard the car scrape. I unhooked my belt, grabbed the wheel, put my foot on the brake to slow us down, glanced to my right, saw that it was reasonably clear and headed to the right shoulder. My husband had died.

I shall be eternally grateful to the gentleman who stopped, kept my car illuminated, as cars raced by, and showed me that he had a car phone and was calling for help. He waited until the paramedics came. He suggested that my car be moved to a safer position, which he did. He got out of my car, handed me the keys, hugged me and left.

Concern for my safety, kindness, compassion--he was truly a good Samaritan in this impersonal city. I hope he will read this and know that through my tears, I am so grateful. The paramedic team was also courageous to be working on my husband so close to the freeway lane. They deserve a lot of credit.

ANNETTE SEYDEL

Encino