Patient reunites with nurse who helped after motorcycle crash

Sept. 10, 2026 - After being seriously injured in a motorcycle crash, Peggy Wright found comfort from a stranger who stopped to help in her time of need. Registered nurse April Orrenmaa was driving nearby when she witnessed the crash and immediately rushed to assist.

“All I remember is waking up and I was in the road,” Wright told WBTV.

As Wright waited for emergency responders to arrive, Orrenmaa stayed by her side, offering reassurance and helping keep her mind focused on family rather than the severity of the situation.

Weeks later, Wright was transferred to Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Rock Hill for inpatient rehabilitation. In an unexpected reunion, Orrenmaa discovered Wright's name on her patient list and realized she would once again be caring for the woman she helped on the roadside.

Since arriving at Encompass Health Rock Hill, Wright has made significant progress in her recovery, including taking her first independent steps. For Orrenmaa, witnessing Wright's determination and recovery has been especially meaningful.

“Her sitting here looking brand new and so great is just a tremendous feeling,” Orrenmaa said.

Today, Wright is preparing to return home after making significant progress during her rehabilitation stay. Along the way, she found an unexpected source of encouragement in the nurse who was there from the very beginning.

“I’m telling you, she is an angel,” Wright said. “She will never be forgotten.”