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Viewers Come To Aid Of Elderly Subway Attack Victim

NEW YORK (CBS 2) -- Her story truly touched viewers.

On Wednesday CBS 2's Wendy Gillette brought you an interview with a woman mugged in a New York City subway station. The attack was caught on surveillance video.

And many of you wanted to help.

The shocking video certainly got viewers' attention. An 81-year-old woman on her way home from cleaning offices was robbed and thrown to the ground by a heartless thief near a turnstile inside the Fulton Street station.

Madeline Klima spoke about her ordeal Wednesday as she recovers from a fractured shoulder and head injury.

"Why? Why'd she have to hurt so bad?" Klima asked Gillette.

Right after the story aired, CBSNewYork.com started getting emails and phone calls from viewers wanting to help.

Melani Nardone offered a $500 donation.

"I felt so badly that someone that age, who's so vulnerable and working so hard, was attacked, you know, in such a cowardly manner. And my heart went out to her," Nardone said.

Lori Lynn was also moved into action.

"I want her to feel safe. I want her to know there are good people out there and not everyone's like the person that attacked her," Lynn said.

Gillette brought the contributions to Klima's home in Brooklyn.

Gillette told Klima the people actually donated $600 to her, to which she responded "Oh thank you. I don't know what to say."

The thief got away with three paychecks, which Klima's boss cancelled and reissued.

She said she's stunned strangers would also wanted to help.

"I can't explain it, it feels wonderful. No words," she said bursting into tears.

Klima read some of the emails CBSNewYork.com received.

"I want Ms. Klima to know good always outshines evil. It's true!" she said.

Thanks to the goodwill of other, Klima is a believer.

The attack happened Jan. 4 in Manhattan. Police are still searching for the suspect, who is described as a dark-skinned female, about 5-foot-10 and 200 pounds.

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