Patient credits Three Rivers Health Hospital associate with saving his life during tornado

Abby Hostetler was working the front desk at Three Rivers Health Hospital when she heard the severe weather alert on the scanner. As she was making a final sweep of the lobby, that’s when she saw him.

She recognized 86-year-old Del Eastes right away as he slowly walked through the doors. But the long-time snack bar volunteer didn’t look well, so she hurried over to help him. Looking out the window, the scene turned terrifying.

A tornado was barreling through the community.

“I couldn’t go hide, I had to go help him,” Abby said. She looped her arm around Del’s and led him through the lobby, swiftly shielding him with her body in a corner. That’s when storm winds pushed through the building.

The doors blew in. Windows shattered. Floor mats lifted off the ground, artwork was ripped off the walls, and debris was flying in at them.

Abby held Del against the wall until the tornado had passed.

“She knew exactly what she was doing. She’s really kind of a hero,” Del said. “I’d say she saved my life.”

And it was all caught on camera.

Watch the full story from WWMT News Channel 3 reporter Ava Ray.