Devoted firefighters deserve our thanks

Recently, I headed to the gym for what I thought would be an ordinary workout.

When I arrived, I realized that everything was not OK. The nice gentleman who teased me on a regular basis about how easy a ball workout is (not) was not working out, but was in cardiac arrest. I watched as the Marysville medics were responding with a calmness I will never forget as they began the process of attempting to save a life. There was no heartbeat or pulse. I looked on while they worked diligently to save a life. I was comforted to see Tom Dickson, a firefighter for Snohomish County, Paine Field, helping selflessly on his own time.

I have seen individuals receive treatment for heart-related ailments, but have never witnessed someone with no pulse as long as this gentleman.

The gym closed and the gentleman still had no pulse as I left. I prayed he would be given a second chance.

Thank you to the firefighters who have no name, but a huge place in my heart. Thank you, Tom, for giving of yourself even when it wasn’t about the money. You all worked tirelessly to save him even when it appeared hopeless.

I heard later that evening the firefighters were able to get a pulse. While he did not make it, I witnessed an honest effort to give a person a second chance.

Thank you to all of you for the second chances you have given so many people, and for attempting to give those a second chance who don’t survive.

Thank you for reminding me how precious life is, and to those I love, know that I do. Forgive me for not saying so enough.

Tami Dutton

Stanwood