I was driving back from my son’s track meet in Minnesota, tired but happy after a long day, when my car suddenly lurched to a stop—I had a flat tire. Stranded on an Iowa interstate, I fumbled for my phone, trying to use the roadside assistance feature on my Allstate app. But the signal was weak, and I quickly realized I wouldn’t be able to reach anyone that way.

Frustration set in. I don’t know how to change a tire, and the thought of being stuck there for hours with my son made my heart race. Deciding to call Allstate directly, I braced myself for a long wait, imagining the endless minutes ticking by with no help in sight.

Then, out of nowhere, my son’s voice cut through my anxiety: “Someone is here.”

I looked up, and there he was—a young man in full Iowa Hawkeye gear, his friendly eyes and confident stance immediately calming my nerves. “Can I help you?” he asked.

His name was Zach Twedt, a football player for the Iowa Hawkeyes. And just like that, he had appeared—an unexpected guardian angel on the side of a quiet interstate. He didn’t have to stop. There was no obligation, no reason for him to interrupt his day for strangers. Yet, without hesitation, he stepped out of his car, assessed the situation, and got to work, helping us change the tire and making sure we could get back on the road safely.

As we worked together, I couldn’t help but marvel at his generosity. Here was a young man with his own life, his own schedule, yet he chose to extend his kindness to complete strangers. He offered not only his skill but his time, his patience, and a comforting presence when we needed it most.

When it was all over, I thanked him as sincerely as words could convey. My son and I drove off, hearts full of gratitude and admiration.

I want to express my deepest thanks to Zach Twedt. Your simple act of kindness transformed a stressful, frustrating moment into a memory of generosity and human decency. May God bless you and reward your selflessness, today and always.

Sometimes, the world reminds us that heroes aren’t only in stadiums—they’re the ones who stop on a quiet interstate to help a stranger in need. Zach, you are one of those heroes.