A week ago, I found myself sitting in an ambulance on the way to the emergency room at a local hospital. I didn’t plan to be there, again, but my palpitating heart needed to be checked on, and the paramedic's urged me to go.  I knew it was an attack, I had just posted about the last episode of palpitations that happened years ago.

I was checked out and after a full cardiac workup, I was sent home, well. It was my fault, I had just eaten, then I bent over to clean my pantry. What a lesson in sitting down, I learned. I knew it wasn’t anything serious, but I’m glad that I had the opportunity to get the checkup. I hadn’t had one in some years. "You didn’t have a heart-attack, there are no blockages, and the hole in your heart is still closed. I am not prescribing any medications, what ever you are doing, keep doing it,” the cardiologist encouraged.

For two days, I sat in a bed, being served, and cared for by some of the most, amazing people. I was transported various times, by a friendly young man named, Todd. I was cared for by various young nurses, one who’s name is Mary. Three gentlemen about my age, who put me through a cardiac stress test, after they fought just to get a good vein. And a very kind young lady who performed my cardiac sonogram.

I had gone through all of these procedures before in prior years, but this time I noticed two things; that I wasn’t afraid for my life, and how much I still value all of those caregivers who have helped to sustain my life.

I once wrote a thank you letter to the local newspaper, not for any recognition for me, but just so I could say, “Thank You.” As patients, we come and go, but very few of us ever get the opportunity to give back to those who have given so much loving, gentle care to us. In the most precarious situations, those care providers, offer their lives, to save ours.

They are the hardest working, sacrificing people, God has called to service, next to the military personnel. They are the first to run into the trouble, and they stay through the trouble until the trouble is over. Their calling to care and their gift of life sustaining support is amazing. Not everyone can care at that capacity. And not everyone has the depth of heart that: Doctors, nurses, police officers, fire fighters, EMT’s, military personnel, and educators do. After our shift is over, we can rest, but they keep going, so we can rest. Although they are human, they give supernatural love.

When I was a little girl, my dream was to be a nurse. I had watched how loving and comforting they were to me. They made a lasting impression on my life. Due to illnesses, I didn’t get to become a part of the wonderful family of professional nursing, but they still leave an impression on my life; one that I use to care for my clients as a home care provider. I am thankful for your service, and grateful for you helping to sustain my life. May God bless you and yours and keep all of you safe.