First responders deserve special credit

To the editor:

On the evening of Jan. 6, my father lost consciousness and collapsed at his Fruitland home. After calling 911, several first responders from the Fruitland Fire Department arrived at the residence. When I met them at the door, they explained an ambulance was on the way and that they were there to help until the ambulance arrived. They were professional, knowledgeable and kind.

My 3-year-old daughter saw my father collapse and saw how distressed my mother and I were. She was hysterical, so I rushed her out of the house to my vehicle to take her to a friend's house, but I was beginning to get blocked in by emergency vehicles. One of the first responders guided me out of the maze of blue lights and even moved the branches of a rose bush so it wouldn't scratch my van.

I do not know who the responders were, but my family and I want to express our appreciation to all of them and commend them for their actions. It was incredible how quickly they were on the scene. As a former police officer, I can appreciate how hard it can be to locate a residence. How reassuring.

I want to remind everyone who lives outside the city limits that we are fortunate to have volunteers like those at the Fruitland Fire Department who selflessly volunteer to take time from their own lives and families, potentially putting themselves in harm's way, to ensure our welfare. God bless and protect them all.

JAMIE (BURGFELD) HEFNER, Jackson