“I sat in the emergency room and thought of all the people I knew who had been there, waiting like us. I thought of all the people who made it. I thought of your dad.”
Years ago now, my friend Caitlin recounted the emergency room visit she endured, waiting for news of her dad who was brought in with chest pain. Her dad didn’t make it. Her words often replay in my mind, wishing the story went differently for her and her family.
Ten years ago, I was anxiously awaiting news of my own dad, brought in because he was having a heart attack at the age of 54. I remember all the “what ifs” that ran through my mind. Would I ever be able to wrap my arms around his waist and rest my head in his chest again?
We were lucky that day, ten years ago. My dad made it and there hasn’t been a day that has passed that I haven’t been grateful for all the moments we’ve had with him since, grateful for the doctors who were able to keep him here with us.
I’ve written about this day before:
Where There Is Joy 
So glad that 10 years ago your dad’s story went well. I am touched by the way you start your story this time with Caitlin’s – how the possibility of things going differently still colors your thinking about that day. I am glad that your father’s story continues.
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You gave me chills with this. Glad you still have your dad to make memories with.
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I have been there….in your (and Caitlin’s) place. Your post brought back the feeling of fear…of not knowing….of hoping beyond hope…of realizing the possibiities. I too was lucky. I too still have my dad. I’m so glad you still have yours.
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It’s so easy to take for granted what we have each and every day. It’s moments like this one that remind us all how much those around us mean to us. Your slice is a reminder to all of us to appreciate and celebrate our parents, our kids, our friends, each other. So thankful you’ve got your Dad by your side! xoxo
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Hospitals are such scary places- they can bring such joy and sadness. Wishing you many more happy times with your dad.
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Erika just took me back 13 years and now you take me back 10. So glad your hospital visit had a happy ending. Keep that gratitude going!!
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I time traveled with Erika too!
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It’s moments like the one you had, when your dad had a heart attack at 54, that give you pause and make you realize how lucky you are to continue to have him in your life.
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I also like how you open with your friend’s message to you. Your piece is about your own experience with your Dad, but you give it a universality, as you honor all those sitting in ER waiting rooms, waiting for a variety of outcomes.
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