Time to Celebrate with Ruth Ayers! Every week I am so thankful for this weekly practice of writing and reading celebrations. To reflect and find the good, even in difficult situations is rejuvenating. Read other celebrations here.
Today, I’m celebrating what could have happened, but didn’t. I’m celebrating how a random act was just a big bump in the road, not a disaster.
Thursday night my son was running. He was crossing the street, in the crosswalk. Watching for cars, he looked left, then right. He didn’t see one car, and the driver didn’t see him. It was an accident, pure and simple. No wrong doing. He’s going to be fine. He’s sore and bruised, but no broken bones, no concussion, no internal injuries. He’s lucky.
This week, I’m celebrating the skilled, caring and kind people who helped us through a scary night.
1. The driver. He was driving slowly. He stopped, and got help. He must have felt awful. I don’t know who he was, but I hope he finds out my son is going to be fine.
2. The bystanders. They saw, they heard, they came and helped.. One was an RN. One called 911. Several made sure other drivers avoided the accident. One helped me get to my son.
3. The firemen and paramedics from engine company 101. These professionals are masterful in emergency care, and are extremely kind. They not only cared for my son, they cared for me. Four paramedics tended my son in the ambulance. One made sure that I had my son’s glasses, that I knew where the hospital was, that I didn’t worry if the sirens went on, that I was safe getting to the hospital.
4. The police officers of the Harbor Division. They were at the scene, and followed up at the hospital, making sure it was just an accident. That’s important. We can be so quick to judge, to blame when bad things happen. But this was simply an accident. Both parties just didn’t see the other one coming.
5. The trauma unit at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. We are so fortunate to have a trauma center close to home. The staff is amazing. They know their stuff. Dr. Darcy checked him out as soon as he arrived. No waiting. His nurses, Kevin and Vinnie, kept a close watch on him. X-rays were taken and read quickly. We knew what was happening as soon as they did. The staff was there for him at all times, supremely skilled and very kind.
This weekend,my son is resting and thankful. He knows he’s lucky.
This weekend, I am celebrating the people who care for others with skill and kindness.
To Read To Write To Be 
Scary. So, so glad your son is fine.
Oh my Julieanne, I couldn’t breathe reading this post. Thank goodness he is okay and so many people were so wonderful making sure of that.
This must have been so, so scary for you and your family. I’m so glad your son is OK. This is certainly something to celebrate!
Wow! This could have been such a different outcome. Thanking God for this blessing and praying for your peace. Sometimes we react with adrenaline and then a huge let down comes in afterward. I’ve experienced this when my daughter fell seriously ill as a baby. Took a while for my mind and body to recover from the rush. Please call me if you need to talk. Happy to listen.
Thank you so much Margaret. You are right about the adrenaline. I woke up the next day feeling like I was hit by a car! Everyday he feels better helps my recovery. I feel your strength through your words.
Oh my goodness. SO thankful everyone is okay. Taking a moment to express gratitude is a good way to process such a scary time. Hugs to you all.
Oh my goodness, Julieanne! I am so happy he’s ok. How scary! I must say I love your perspective on this whole situation…knowing it was an accident and your gratitude for those who helped. You are such a kind, forgiving and wonderful person. Take good care of your son (and yourself) this weekend!!
Read this with heart in throat, Julieanne. So terrifying. But there is much to celebrate here as well, especially the kindness and caring of strangers.
So glad your son is ok! Clearly lots of angels looking out for him and you!
It’s a blessing when there are professionals to help us navigate scary things. I’ve been so grateful through the years for them. I’m so glad all went well for you, Julieanne, and that your son is all right. Whew!
This is truly something to celebrate Julieann! Your son is very fortunate to be surrounded by good people.
Oh my goodness. Scary. Scary. Scary. I’m so sorry you had to have this experience, but happy to hear that there were so many amazing people who made it a little more manageable. Wishing your son a fast recovery. As for you, I’m sure it’ll take a bit longer to recover from such a scary situation!
Oh, my gosh. How scary. I cannot imagine the fear you faced. I hope your son recovers quickly and bright days are ahead!
Wow! What a scary experience. So glad your son is ok and that you received excellent care all the way along.