North Vancouver - Dear Editor: While waiting for my granddaughter's soccer game to start at Lynn Valley Park recently, I was suddenly overcome by a severe headache and stiff neck. I went back to my car parked at the recreation centre parking lot to rest, but soon realized I needed medical assistance. Unable to dial 9-1-1 myself, I looked for help but saw no one nearby. Miraculously, a man, woman and two young children appeared on the sidewalk and hurried over to me when they heard my cries for help. The man immediately called 9-1-1 while the woman ran over to the soccer field to alert my daughter-in-law Sophie. When the ambulance arrived I was taken to Lions Gate Hospital where I lost consciousness and had tests before being transported to Vancouver General Hospital where I had two surgeries for a ruptured brain aneurysm. After almost three weeks in the hospital, I am now recovering at home. Thanks to God, I did not suffer any brain damage.
I am sincerely grateful for the kind family who helped me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. The man, whose name started with a "J," comforted me, was very calm and eased my anxiety. Had my angels not been walking by then, my story could have been quite different. I hope that they will leave their contact information with the North Shore News front desk so I can thank them in person.
Penny McDonald
North Vancouver
