Last year I learned I had Achalasia—an abnormal functioning of the esophagus. I manage with taking small bites, chewing carefully, and drinking liquid while eating. I am consistent in wearing my Medical Alert necklace. In the past I was careless, often forgetting where I put it or how important it is to wear it.

Early in the morning on April 1, I woke up and knew I was in trouble. I felt food stuck in my throat. I could not get it to move. I began to choke. For the first time ever I pushed the button on my necklace and said “help, help.” That is the last I remember until I woke up three days later at Homestead Hospital. Ocean Reef EMS had rescued me in response to the Medical Alert call for help.

I wanted to share this story with all of you who, like me, may have become nonchalant about wearing the life saving call for help. If you have one, wear it. If you do not have one, consider the many choices and order one now.

Coincidentally, the Lunch and Learn participants were just finishing seven weeks of study led by our wonderful facilitator Reverend Bob Henley. We had explored the concept of hesed, the divine and abundant generosity of spirit and compassion that is given us and that we may pass on to share with each other. The outpouring of hesed to me during and after my experience has been overwhelming. It s helping me regain my strength and wellbeing. I thank all who helped me back.

Do not take your situation, time or place for granted. I thank my Medical Alert button, Ocean Reef EMS, Homestead Hospital, and my tender and patient caretakers for bringing me back to share my story.