Editor,
We moved to Holiday Island about 4 1/2 years ago. Our real estate agent, Diane Paulson, told us about the Air Evac insurance we should get just in case of a medical emergency, (of which we heeded her advice).
Several weeks ago, my husband was having a massive heart attack. Our First Responders were there to help within crucial minutes. The new Air Evac facility was ready and kept my husband alive with their medical care. The nurse was absolutely incredible, wasting no time with immediate treatment and caring enough to assure me with hopefulness. The pilot came to me, put his hand on my shoulder as he said how clear the day was and no wind, they would have my husband at the Hospital in less than 15 minutes, where the staff at Washington Regional would be waiting.
They lifted with urgency and sped away. Relief was an understatement and the sound of that helicopter was one of the most beautiful sounds in the world. Several of our Holiday Island First Responders were so caring and concerned, asked if I need one of them to take me to the hospital 60 miles away. I declined, but just the sincere act of caring was so amazing.
Only 14 minutes later, the pilot called me upon landing at the hospital to tell me that my husband was on his way to the operating room. The following day, the Air Evac nurse called to see how he was. It was her day off and the caring was still evident.
My husband is still with me today because of these heroes. Thank you just does not even begin to let them all know how we feel for their care and for being there when needed.
We are all so blessed and fortunate to have such caring, life saving talent of our First Responders and the new Air Evac Team in Holiday Island, and hopefully the residents realize how lucky we are when response time makes the difference between life and death.
Some may complain of the noise from the helicopter, instead of complaining, I suggest you say a short prayer or good thought for those making that noise because you or a loved one may be their next passenger.
With my heart full of thanks for all involved, I will forever be in your debt, and you will always be in my prayers
Tracey George