I made a comment earlier today on a group post about how most of us would class ourselves as being lucky, but on reflection, it’s not quite as simple as that.
Whilst the majority succumb to the fatal embrace of the grim reaper, we the few, have experienced varying degrees of good fortune.
Perhaps most have some bruises and scars that they could do without, and whilst some escape his clutches with barely a scratch, others may live to fight another day, but bare deep wounds that will take much love and courage to fill.
Whilst things may seem hopeless at times and dark thoughts may cloud our way, we can at least feel lucky we are alive in an age where there is hope that much progress is being made to help heal those wounds.
We must hold our nerve to steady the ship, move forward slowly and keep a determined mind…
After our first meet-up in February 2015, I realised I was not alone. It was the first time since my cardiac arrest the previous year that I had spoken face-to-face with someone who had experienced what I had. This was also true for my wife, who also happened to be my lifesaver. From that meet-up, the idea of SCA UK was born. Since then, we have achieved a considerable amount, primarily providing information, resources and support to others in a similar situation but also raising the profile of survivorship and the need for better post-discharge care. We are starting to get traction in this, and with the formation of the charity, I genuinely believe we have a bright future ahead and will make a significant difference in the lives of many who join our ranks.