Home in time for Father's Day.

Last year, the day before Father's Day, our department received a medical call for a subject "not breathing, not conscious".

When we hear these words several questions run through our minds as we scramble to our vehicles.

How long has the patient been down? What is the patent's medical history? Am I prepared to start CPR? These are just a few of many.

I was first to arrive and the friend who had found her was standing outside by his motorcycle. Not a good sign. I proceeded in to find the elderly woman in a chair on her sun porch.

She was gone.

The ambulance and paramedic arrived a couple of minutes later. "She's in there", I replied as I made my way back to my pickup. Neighbors were coming out of their homes to see what was happening. I greeted them and told them the solemn news.

When there is nothing you can do for the patient it is important to remember that the survivors, both friends and family have become your patients now. Just taking a few moments to talk with them can have awesome healing power.

I listened to several people that day and as I was traveling down the highway the next morning their words and the realization of what particular day this was, suddenly a whole new picture was painted of yesterday's lament.

The neighbor said that she was sitting in her favorite room and in her favorite chair.

The paramedic noted that she was reading The Holy Bible, her favorite book.

She had told the friend who found her , "I have travel plans for this weekend.. Don't tell anyone".

A smile came across my face followed by tears of joy for this dear old woman. All the tidbits of conversation from the day before were now quite clear.

She was in her favorite room, in her favorite chair, reading her favorite book and she did indeed have travel plans....to be home in time for Father's Day.

Now if you will excuse me, this big hearted firefighter needs a tissue......

Rescue Dog