Mid autumn morning
an ordinary day
Busy with chores
daughter, my love, watching television.
I leave the room
in search of something
I hear a noise, a sputter, a cough, a gasp
What is it? "You OK honey?" I ask.
Nothing but another sputter, a strangled breath.
Horror fills me to the core
What ifs on my mind
no time for that now
I meet her, gasping, holding her throat
a nightmare come true for any parent
A candy is lodged deep, choking
unknowing of its capabilities
I grab her, a few squeezes fail
Nothing more than panic and gasps between us
Running out of time
maternal instincts kick in
Memories of CPR from long ago greet me
Take hold, fingers frantic but strong and searching
Feel the ball of confection choking the life
my love is waiting for action
A pull and it's over
a deep inhale is music to my ears
my heart and soul sing out
A life saved, lesson learned
Love lives on another day
Strong hands and quick mind prevail
Safe is what we are
ugh. i choked on a marble as a kid...very scary...as a parent...all the scarier...
ReplyDeleteWow you had me riding that panic train with you. Nicely spun.
ReplyDeleteHorrors and nightmares are made of this.. good that you had the mind and body to help her..
ReplyDeletetruly scary...I had to remember to breathe in there...nicely done!
ReplyDeleteKept me reading to the end! Deep exhale!
ReplyDeleteVery scary! Great job telling the story. Wonderful imagery. :-)
ReplyDeletewhoa!!!!
ReplyDeletemost terrifying experience for a parent, the most gratifying when strength and wisdom take hold and you save the day. Emotional write
ReplyDeleteWhat a frightening experience - you have captured it so vividly!
ReplyDeleteWhat a roller coaster that was...glad for the safe end on that ride!
ReplyDeleteGood write!
Thank god god sent you at the right time.
ReplyDelete