Jeanette Gutierrez, who originally had one sister, now considers herself to have two siblings. During the September 11 attacks 25 years ago, Gutierrez, who was working near the World Trade Center, was saved by her sister, Gail.
However, it was a decade ago in Gander, Newfoundland, where Gutierrez met a friend who eventually became like a sister to her. Attending a 9/11 commemoration in Gander, a town that sheltered numerous stranded passengers after the attacks, Gutierrez was moved by the kindness of the locals.
Despite her aversion to seafood, Gutierrez found herself compelled to participate in a local tradition called “screeching-in” which involved eating a small, stinky fish. Kelly Sceviour, a Gander local, came to her rescue and helped her through the experience.
Their friendship blossomed from that moment, with Gutierrez expressing how Sceviour’s support has been instrumental in helping her cope with the memories of 9/11. Gutierrez often prefers to be in Gander on the anniversary of the attacks, finding solace in the company of her newfound sister.
The bond between Gutierrez and Sceviour strengthened over time, with Gutierrez acknowledging how her big sister Gail played a pivotal role in saving her life on that fateful day. In another turn of fate, Sceviour, working for the municipal government at the time, played a crucial role in assisting stranded passengers during the aftermath of the attacks.
Reflecting on the events of 9/11 and the kindness extended by the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, Gutierrez emphasized that no political tension could ever diminish the unbreakable bond she shares with Sceviour and the community of Gander.
Overall, the lasting friendship between Gutierrez and Sceviour serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of compassion and solidarity, transcending borders and politics.