Patch Blog: Measure S--Life is Precious and Every Second Counts

In our most dire moments, it almost appears as if time begins to dilate into a slow, heartbreaking still. It is within these few rare moments, that we realize just how vulnerable and helpless we become. On the early morning of September 24^th, my mother Mrs. Wai-Wah Shum Cheng suffered another stroke within 10 hours and was in need of immediate medical attention. I called 911 again.

In an impossible race against the clock, one force stood against the test of time and emerged victorious in its plight--the San Marino paramedics and police officers. Arriving in a matter of minutes again, the paramedics entered the scene with a quick and precise air of professionalism that had only one goal in mind: to beat the clock and save someone’s life. In their heroic attempts, the paramedics miraculously resuscitated my mother and for the first time in that moment, after seeing my mother’s heartbeat on the monitor, time began to move again. 

Although in the bitter end, my mother did not survive her drastic stroke from that morning, our family would like to acknowledge and give our thanks to the paramedics and their selfless services, who, in our dire moment of need, provided me and my family with the strength we needed to get through this. No matter the outcome, it is with my whole heart that I believe that without the quick response of the paramedics, life will not be saved and many others would not be as fortunate to say goodbye to their loved ones like our family did. Life is precious and we do need to show we care to all our loved ones any chances we have...or we will regret we didn't when they are gone!

It’s still very hard indeed to put our thoughts into words, but we want to take this opportunity to thank many relatives, friends and neighbors of our community for their thoughtfulness, generosity and support during this difficult time; they are greatly appreciated. Especially to my partner Earlene Cheung for all her support, and who is like the sister to me that I never had. I can't thank you enough and only hope that I can reciprocate some day.

We would also like to acknowledge The Huntington Memorial Hospital for all their professional and caring services from the emergency room to the CCU that guided our family through this difficult time.

Life is precious…I urge you to vote YES on on November 8 that will continue the taxes that have funded vital safety services in San Marino since 1980. 

Sincerely,

Stephen, Vivian, Stephanie, Vincent, Stanley & Vanessa Chan

Paul, Vera & Yolanda Cheng

Joe, Carmel & Joey Cheng