To the Journal letter:

My heart stopped beating. Less than 100 years ago, I wouldn’t be alive right now, but in these times we often come back from the brink and gradually return to our ordinary world.

Many people are interested in what happens when you brush by death. Some people claim to see all sorts of things, but I saw nothingness. It was empty. However, when I came to, I felt completely immersed in love. I saw the professionals that surrounded me and I felt we were all one. No creed, philosophy, politics, religion or personal experience came between us. In that moment I felt the complete unity of humankind.

I am so thankful for all the consummate professionals that adeptly repaired and revived me. The staff of UP Health System-Marquette Heart and Cardiovascular is worthy of my total respect for their expertise, but more importantly for the love that they exhibited during crisis.

If I had a choice, I’d go through every single moment of it again because something very special happened in that operating room. We were united in a love that transcends the human condition. I’ll never lose track of it.

Thank you to all the health care professionals at UP Health System-Marquette. From the doctors and nurses right to the clerical and custodial staff, you guys are the best!