This Way To My Blog

This Way To My Blog

Sunday, January 12, 2014

A Sad Lift Off

When they built on to our hospital recently they moved the heli-pad to the front and to the side of the front parking lot. When we went to eat at the cafeteria an air life copter was on the pad with motor running and door open. Techs were pushing an empty stretcher toward the hospital. As we got out of the car the helicopter revved up the motors and the blades stirred the leaves on a small tree. I happened to look across the pad with the fence surrounding it and I spotted a lady standing as near as she could legally and safely stand. My heart went out to her imaging she is the wife, daughter, or   mother of the patient. Reminding me of when Mel had a heart attack in the car and we wrecked on a Sears parking lot. The driver of the car we hit came our raising cane as it was a borrowed car. I know the feeling of riding in an ambulance when some cars won't move over. When they took me into a private room I knew things were bad. As the driver of the ambulance prepared to leave he came in to the room where I was and tousled my hair but didn't say much. I knew it was bad. Mel lived four days but never came to. My daughters and sons-in-law were very kind and helpful but after a few months their life had to move on in other states. It was hard having to make decisions alone, get myself to doctor appointments in parts of town I wasn't familiar with. Setting prices on houses to sell and selling them, but I muddled through. Even mowed grass on a lawnmower with three wheels. That makes me laugh, I'm not very mecanically inclined. Surely I could have bought a wheel that fit and put it on.  Shortly after that I decided I could hire my lawn mowed. I could sell the rent property. I pulled myself up by the boot straps and did things for me. Dancing, walking, exercising, a few trips. It was hard but it can be done. I wasn't the first and I won't be the last but I pray the person in the air life helicopter will be okay and the lady standing at the fence will be okay if she was connected. Please don't think I'm writing this to make you feel sorry for me, I'm not. Even though sad, it made me learn a lot and be independent.

11 comments:

TexWisGirl said...

you witnessed a person standing on a precipice of change - like that which you had to face. and you came through the other side, scarred but strong, too. i hope that person can face whatever is ahead, too.

TARYTERRE said...

You saw someone potentially facing what you survived. It's bound to bring up memories.

Lynne said...

Your post helped me reflect on those individuals whom have lost their respective spouses over the past couple years, including my mother, and how they must be going through a similarly same situation. Bottom line, you empathized based on your own experience. I hope if this person is faced with losing their loved one, she will come out as strong as you have proven to be. You inspire!

Hootin Anni said...

As I read this, I have gooseflesh...the lady truly [surely?] was connected to the drama that was taking place. Pray for her and the one on the stretcher.

I lost both my parents, and I was there...it's a difficult thing, and you wonder just 'how am I supposed to live without them'...but you do.

And memories of the good times will linger forever.

jack69 said...

We try to learn from other folks experience. We know the time will come for one of us, a lesson in life we have finally settled with. Your personal stories remain in our hearts. We do admire you so.

Love you lady,
Sherry & Jack

Kath said...

Loss is such a hard thing to take in Paula.Yes you are right, we do come through these things,it's hard yes,but life must go on.It's 38 yrs today since I lost my dear Father and I thought I would never come through that at all.Being only had him for 30yrs.Every day we find something remins us of our loved ones lost.I pray for everyone every day, no matter who they are,theres always some hurt for somebody.May God be witht he lady you saw.You are a survivor.Hugs Take Care God Bless Kath xx

Wendy said...

Prayers, love and Hugs!!

Hootin Anni said...

Hi again Paula...ps...just read your comment you left for me. The turtle in the image I posted today is on a piece of flat wood jutting out of the pond.

Leave It To Davis said...

Dear, sweet Paula....you learned compassion...and even though it is a terribly hard lesson to learn, it is an enviable trait. And it seems to me, one that is learned as time goes by in ones life. Hugs to you, sweet, sweet lady.

Jimmy's Journal said...

I/m sure that the vibes, good will and prayers that you are emitting will help, Paula.

Jimmy

Chatty Crone said...

I think what a great person you are to have empathy for someone else - it is bound to bring back old memories.