"I Almost Moved Away"

A local elder recently asked to talk to Indian Time Newspaper. She wanted to express her thanks to the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe and the services they offer to seniors. I mentioned she could write a 'thank you letter' and submit it to the paper. But she wanted more, she said, no I want you to write the story. This is more than just a thank you letter. It was the difference between moving away from Akwesasne and staying in a community that she feels takes care of community members.

It all started with the big flood in 2020, when the St. Regis River overflowed and quickly filled her lawn, her basement and the first floor of her home located adjacent to the river. At the time, Lisa Sears was taking care of her mother in the last stages of dementia.

Sears said, "I heard a big roar then all of a sudden water was rolling right in. I yelled to my mother to get up and get ready to leave. I called the police immediately. The water had rushed in and had already reached the steps. I was trying to get mom ready as the emergency response team pulled in. My Mom had Dementia then – she was always happy. Talking away to the emergency providers. They put mom in a stretcher. They were all young – all so courteous."

"And within those few minutes, water was rushing into my home as fast as we could leave. We left the house with me following the ambulance."

She added, "They were professional and at the same time cheerful, to be helping us. I'll never forget the assistance they gave us."

After the flood, the SRMT returned to repair damage to the house and to shore up the culverts, the shoreline and damage to the roadside. They seeded the river banks, strengthened the shoreline,

Sears thought of those time and said, "I remember Derek Comins and Angelo Johnson - they were such good workers and did their job well. And the late Kermit (Daryl Lazore). Then, I think they were all young, under 30 – a great group of workers.

She said, I was thinking of moving away, but I am taken care of by these people – my medical, the Senior's, they replaced my roof when I needed it. I always read of Akwesasne helping their own, like when community members step up on their own to help people who are sick with cancer. Or as Elders. It's a community of people."

"Its been five years since the flood. I remember Mohawk Plumbing had our electricity back on in 24 hours. I never thought I'd live here again. I used to worry about the new generation, but I don't anymore. They are hardworking, educated, and nice."

She took a moment to look at the river and said, "It's good karma to help others out."