Rescued Victim Says Thanks

The woman rescued by quick-thinking contractors said "thank you" today to all who have helped her and to those who tried in vain to save her husband. Patti Ralph-Neely and her husband, Alan, fell out of their boat as it moved down the fast-flowing Des Moines River near the Center Street Dam in downtown Des Moines yesterday. The rescue was amazing to watch, but, of course, heartbreaking, as well, since no one could get to Alan fast enough. Here are two of stories we ran on WHO-TV 13 that captured both the relief and heartache. Below them is the statement Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines just released on behalf of Patti Neely.

First story.


Second story.

Statement from Patti Ralph-Neely

Yesterday’s events are bittersweet. While I am very thankful to be here today I lost the love of my life, my husband, Alan. I am very thankful for the outpouring of love shown by our friends and family as well as the community. Your concern and caring are uplifting.
I would like to express my thanks to the people who are part of the reason I am here, including the men operating the crane from Cramer and Associates— Joe Lowe and Jason Oglesbee— who was lowered into the river so I might could grab his hand and be rescued; the Des Moines Police and Fire water rescue team and paramedics who brought me out of the river and took me to Mercy. I’d also like to thank the doctors and caring staff in Mercy’s emergency department who cared for me during my medical time of need, and thank you to the people lined along the river bank— your shouts of encouragement to hang on and be strong were heard and appreciated more than you will know.
Now begins a time of healing. Our family asks for our privacy,` but know that all of you will be with us during this process as you were when I was in need.