The Day That Rewrote My Future. My Tribute to Westfield's Bravest
- Published on
As I sit to write this, the vivid memories of a day that could have easily been my last flood back with a clarity that time hasn't dimmed. It was an ordinary November day, with the crisp air hinting at the coming winter, a day like any other—until it wasn't.
My story isn't just mine; it's a testament to the heroes who walk among us, often unnoticed until the moment their courage and training are all that stand between life and death. It's about the Westfield police officers and firefighters whose actions on that day are the reason I can share this story.
On November 18, 2022, in what began as an unremarkable moment at our Westfield home, my life hung by a thread. My wife, Cristina Mathis, found me unresponsive, a scenario that's every family's worst nightmare. The call she made to 911 at just after 1 p.m. was a beacon of hope in our darkest hour.
Less than five minutes—that's all it took for Officer Ryan Weiss and Westfield Fire Department Engine 4 to arrive. Their swift action, the CPR, the shock from an automated external defibrillator (AED) by Officer Weiss, was the beginning of a fight for my life I wasn't even conscious to partake in. Firefighter Ryan Dullea's words, "He's got a pulse," were a sliver of light in the overwhelming darkness.
Transported to Overlook Medical Center, I made a full recovery, a journey not just of physical healing but of profound gratitude and awe for those who dedicate their lives to saving others. My wife and I knew we had to thank these brave souls in person, a sentiment we finally got to express.
The ceremony held on May 29, 2023, wasn't just about presenting the Life Saving Awards to six remarkable individuals; it was a celebration of life, of community, and of the unbreakable human spirit. Standing there among those who had a hand in saving my life, including Officer Donald Perkins, Fire Captains Lou Cerchio and John Gura, Firefighters Pat Carey and Ryan Dullea, and Officer Weiss, I was overwhelmed by the realization of how fragile life is and how boundless courage can be.
This post is more than a recount of that day. It's a platform to share stories of hope, resilience, and gratitude. It's a reminder to cherish every moment, to recognize the heroes in our midst, and to acknowledge the preciousness of life. My journey from that day forward has been one of deep reflection, immense appreciation for every moment, and an unwavering belief in the power of community.
As I continue to share my story, I do so with the hope that it inspires others to recognize the value of every second and the heroism of those who dedicate their lives to saving others. The journey ahead is long, but it's one I'm grateful to embark on, thanks to the heroes of Westfield.
As remarkable as the heroism of Westfield's first responders was, my journey of recovery was far from over. It continued at Overlook Medical Center of Summit NJ, where the medical staff became the silent warriors in my battle to regain normalcy. Among these, Doctor Nurse George and Ashley, Dr Mark J Krell, and Dr Michael G. Katz deserve my heartfelt acknowledgment. Their expertise, coupled with the compassionate care of the entire team, shepherded me through the challenging path to recovery.
Each day at Overlook was a testament to the unwavering dedication of these professionals who, behind the scenes, work miracles. To the doctors, nurses, therapists, and all the staff who touched my life, my family and I owe a debt of gratitude that cannot be expressed in words alone. Their kindness, patience, and encouragement were as vital to my healing as the procedures and medicines.
The community of support extended even further to Morristown Medical Center, NJ, where more hands joined in to weave the safety net that held me. The collective effort of these two medical powerhouses stands as a beacon of hope and care in my life.
This experience has ingrained in me an even deeper appreciation for the medical community, whose members often become unsung heroes. Their contribution to my story is immense, and I salute them for not just their skill, but for their humanity.
In sharing this, I am reminded that every second of life is a collaborative masterpiece of countless individuals, a symphony of efforts that sustains us all. As I walk forward on this journey, I carry the spirit of every person who has been part of my story—a journey marked by resilience, hope, and the collective strength of many.
