LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The community is coming together to support Louisville Metro crossing guard, Gertude Schaftlein. Schaftlein was involved in a hit-and-run while on the job in September. The accident forced her to lose part of her leg and she’s still recovering. 

What You Need To Know

  • Gergrude Schaftlein has been a Louisville crossing guard for almost 50 years

  • She was seriously hurt in a hit-and-run accident involving a semi-truck in September 

  • The community where she is a crossing guard, Valley Station, came out to show support and raise funds for the guard

The 84-year-old has been a crossing guard for nearly 50 years. 

Once a week, Dale Reader comes to the McDonalds in Valley Station to connect with his community. Reader says caring for one another is in the heart of Valley Station. 

“A lot of respect, a lot of respect for your elderly people, and it don’t even have to be the elderly, it can be the needy people,” Reader says. 

Schaftlein worked in the area at the intersection of Cane Run Road and Bridwell and visitors to the restaurant came out to show support for her. On Thursday, Nov. 9, the restaurant donated 50% of its mobile app purchases to support Schaftlein.

Because of her injuries, she wasn’t able to come out to the fundraiser, but those who know her say she has a positive attitude.

Lt. Colonel Aaron Crowell with Louisville Metro Police said, “Her spirit is amazing. When I when I first met with her at the hospital a couple of hours after she had her leg amputated, first thing she said was she wanted to get back to her kids and that she needed her kids—being the children that she helps get across the street every day in school.”

He added, “Whenever you have someone who invests their life in this community and it gives service so selflessly, it’s very important for all of us to show our appreciation for that and to support her in our time of need.”

This seems to be a core part of the Valley Station community.

“We’re usually there to help, you know,” Reader said.

Drop-off donations made payable to the Louisville Metro Police Foundation will be accepted through the drive-up window and in the restaurant lobby.

According to LMPD, witnesses could describe the semi-truck that hit Schaftlein and even though the driver left the scene, police found it and made an arrest.

Those wishing to help can make a donation to the Louisville Metro Police Foundation.

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