I get a sinking feeling every time I hear an emergency vehicle come close to my home. One of my neighbors is in trouble. On a day when Medic One stopped at the house right next door, the sinking feeling intensified. Who needs help? Did the emergency vehicle get there in time to save a life?
As I watch from a distance, I am absolutely helpless at the moment. I want so much to do something to help the family, but what is it that I can do? Prayer is the first thing that comes to mind, but I also need to be proactive and make an effort to assist where possible and not just be an onlooker. There is nothing to be done at the moment, the professionals are here and doing everything possible to save the life of the injured party.
But there is something I can do; if fact I have already done it. By simply paying my property taxes I have provided the funding for the EMS team to arrive, perform their job and save a life.
Unless you are in the middle of the situation, you will never understand the intensity of performing CPR. For many years I was required to hold a CPR card, and went through the training every three years. I never thought I would need the training. One day I did. There was no one else around capable to perform the duty, so it was up to me. All that training came back to me and my immediate focus was doing what I could to save a life. The Arlington EMS arrived and took over in what seems like hours but was in fact only minutes. I was never so relieved to have them continue where I left off. A huge rush of emotion swept over me as I stepped aside and I will never forget the kindness of the Chaplain who came to talk to me. I was awed by the efficiency and level of professionalism of the team.
The Arlington EMS is absolutely necessary to the residents of Arlington. I urge you to vote yes on Prop. 1, the EMS Levy. Do it for your neighbors, do it for your family, friends, or even your fellow citizens. It is a service we can’t live without. You may need it yourself someday.
Michael Prihoda
Arlington
