Be careful how you treat people. You never know who you will end up needing.  These are words that I have said many times, but never have they rang as true as they do now. During life’s most critical times, strangers can become heroes. Friends can become more like family.  You learn who really has your back during those times in which life causes us to ‘put up or shut up’.  Let me tell you! Over the past six weeks I have found that my family is surrounded by genuine heroes and beautiful souls.

On the morning of July 8th, I experienced a parent’s worst nightmare.  I received a call that I would wish on no one. My son collapsed at football practice.  He went into cardiac arrest.  His lungs failed.  The doctors told me that it was very likely that he would not leave the hospital. I wanted to wake up and continue with life as normal.  Unfortunately, this was real life, and the hardest experience of my life and my son’s life. Those who know me will tell you that I am very independent. I don’t like to ask for help.  I am the poster child for the Superwoman Complex.  But this situation, I absolutely could not handle it alone, and I didn’t.

My family carried me, figuratively (at times, literally). My mom. My rock of a sister. My brothers.  They were ‘my everything’. Not only did the Lakewood High School coaching staff save my child’s life (thank God for their quick action, thinking, and presence of the AED), but they have been there for us, non-stop, through it all. They have become family to us.  People who I have known for only a very short time became a part of my support system.  Acquaintances visited, called, and most importantly, prayed with us.  I was overwhelmed by the support, by the genuine care and concern. 

I have to say that I am touched by the love that we received from strangers throughout the entire experience.  Doctors, nurses, therapists…they didn’t just do their jobs. They cared and it was genuine.  They would even call to check on my son on their days off.  They prayed with us.  See, this is why we have to be cautious about how we treat others.  That person who you flip off during your morning commute…that person who you grumbled at because they held up the line at the grocery store…could by some twist of fate become someone who you may need, someone who could help you.  Or they may need you.  Who knows what battles they are fighting? The world is so much smaller than we realize, and you never know whose path you will cross from one day to the next.  This entire experience has taught me so much. I am thankful for each lesson.

Always let your loved ones know how precious they are to you.

Be nice to people.  It may seem so simple, but one kind gesture could mean so much to someone who is going through tough times.

It’s okay to admit that you need help. Some experiences in life are too much to endure alone.

I have to give another huge THANK YOU to everyone who supported us and prayed for us during this ordeal.  Zaire is doing very well. My family is doing well.  I am grateful. 

Comment and let us know what or who you’re grateful for!! 

Antoinette