On Dec. 1, my husband and I attended a holiday party at a friend’s house. During the party I felt a bit nauseated so I drank some water. I sat down in an easy chair. Then I passed out. The next thing I knew, my husband was trying to revive me. He called 911. My pulse was very low at 32 beats per minute.

Very soon the paramedics and emergency medical technicians were at my side. They gave me oxygen and applied a cardiac monitor to my chest. A paramedic applied an external pacemaker which delivered electricity which returned my heart rate to normal. Though the pacer was somewhat painful, I realized it had restored my ability to think clearly. Then they put me in the ambulance and in transit, started an IV and gave me nausea and pain medications. I was so relieved to realize that I would be fine. I subsequently received excellent care from both Southwest Memorial and Mercy hospitals and now have a permanent pacemaker. I am quite appreciative for the hospital care.

I could not let this pass without expressing how very grateful I am to the Southwest Health ambulance crew for bringing me back to life. Their prompt attention and appropriate treatment not only saved my life but saved my ability to think clearly. I will never forget how these folks gave me a new lease on life.

Carolyn Johnson, MD