Mother’s day is a time to celebrate the strong and influential women in our lives, whose love, dedication and sacrifice has shaped us into the people we are today.
One mother in Long Island, New York, gave the ultimate sacrifice on Sunday to save her daughter’s life.
Diane Aluska was walking with her 16-year-old daughter, Jenna, when a Toyota Corolla quickly reversed toward them.
The compact vehicle was driven by 80-year-old Ann Riolo, who had just backed out of a parking lot. She stepped on the accelerator to go forward, without realizing her car was still in reverse.
Ann’s car raced backwards, jumped a curb and barreled directly toward Diane and Jenna.
Without thinking, Diane quickly shoved her daughter almost completely out of harm’s way before the car pinned the mother of two up against a fire station.
All three women were rushed to the hospital, where Jenna and Ann suffered only from non-life-threatening injuries. Diane however, passed away.
Detective Sgt. James Murphy told reporters, “I have no doubt that she saved her daughter’s life.”
Diane Aluska
Mother’s day can be incredibly tough for those who have lost a mother. Join us in praying for the Aluska family, who will now mourn the anniversary of their mother’s death on a day when moms everywhere are being celebrated.
Our heart goes out to them. We know that Diane died for the people she loved most. Her actions are the epitome of a mother’s true love.
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:13
