Life Notes: Angels Among Us
by Erin Rockett

One autumn afternoon I received a call from a coworker, who reported that our dear neighbor, a wonderful lady of 97 years, had fallen and broken her hip. We made arrangements to visit her in the local hospital during the lunch break. Unsure of her condition, we tiptoed in the room to find an unanticipated and welcome sight. Our neighbor, who on the previous day had undergone complete hip replacement surgery, was seated upright in bed, fully alert, and chatting away with family members. Her face lit up upon our arrival, and she greeted us with hugs and smiles. She then proceeded to recount the entire story of her recent difficulties, from the moment of the outdoor fall, to a good Samaritan who stopped to assist. He spotted her waving her cheery red hat from the lawn. He called for an ambulance, and also notified her family members, and waited until help arrived.

As minutes passed, our friend’s positive outlook, loving spirit, and vibrant attitude permeated the room. Soon another friend arrived, a lady who worked as an assistant to the family for years. More introductions, hugs, and stories of grandchildren, nieces, and nephews abounded. A nurse popped in and commented on the lightheartedness present in the room. Much to everyone’s surprise, yet another visitor arrived to check on the patient. The stranger, who helped our friend after the fall, dropped by to check on her condition. More introductions, handshakes, hugs, and family tales filled the hospital room. A roomful of individuals from many diverse paths, largely unfamiliar to each other, connected in an unforgettable manner that afternoon.

One theme united the group: a profound sense of love, admiration, and respect for a kind, generous, and adventurous 97-years young lady. Or as fondly referred to by neighbors, she’s the angel living among us.
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The Life Notes articles are written by staff of Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home and are published in The Ruston Daily Leader.