I'm back

Wow, it's been awhile. Really wasn't inspired to write since last time. I plan to start up again and keep going.

I have been working in EMS since 1994 and have transported many people. Well, in January I became the patient for the first time. I started getting sick on a Saturday and just kept feeling worse. That night I was up all night vomiting. As a diabetic and a paramedic I should have immediately gone to the ER for help after a couple vomiting episodes but hey, I'm a guy. Well, Sunday morning I was extremely weak, sick and barely could walk. My wife asked if I needed to go to the ER and I finally agreed. I barely made it to the vehicle for a ride. Another 30 minutes and she would have had to call the ambulance.

When I arrived at our small, local hospital they had to bring a wheel chair out for me. After a quick check they decided I was in DKA, a serious, sometimes fatal complication of diabetes. My sugar levels were through the rough (yes, I was sweet). I could not stop breathing about 40 times a minute and just felt awful. After they started 3 IV's and had given me insulin and several other medications they called out local ambulance service for transport to a larger hospital with specialty care and ICU. I was transported with lights and sirens. My paramedic was my very first full time EMS partner back in 1996. I was very happy to see him.

The trip was a blur. I remember being loaded into the ambulance and taking off. My next memory was of arriving at the larger facility, a short stop in their ER then up to ICU, were all dignity is lost if you are somewhat bashful. My care was wonderful, at my local hospital and at the larger on. Since this little episode I have a much more compliant diabetic and have felt much better.

Thanks to everyone who helped me, especially my wife, Vivian.