“Male, 58 rushed to hospital with chest pains,” – dramatic, maybe... earth-shattering? Maybe not so much. It’s such a common occurence with men of this age group, it’s pretty much routine.
But there are certain milestones set aside for everyone and for each, they are definitely monumental.
In the case of the recently-returned editor of this publication (and the West Kootenay Advertiser), the moment came with stabbing clarity on the morning of October 28. It was a far more extreme version of something he’d felt once or twice before, thinking it was a nasty case of acid reflux. But the sore left arm, along with the sweating and shaking made a convincing case for a 911 call.
Once in the capable and caring hands of the professionals, all related distress disappeared. From the moment the paramedics loaded the patient for a trip to Kelowna by way of Trail, pain was erased and every effort made to make the experience as benign as possible.
Altogether, close to 30 healthcare personnel had direct input in getting the cardiac victim back on his feet and back on the job. No amount of gratitude would ever be too much for this highly-competent crew, and yet they all earn it repeatedly each day they go to work.
Thanks again, and also to the society that has set up (and funded) this system, as flawed as it may sometimes seem.