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Hoosier United Methodist News Archives
| Hoosier United Methodist News |
May 2001 |
My Witness:
Celebrating a first birthday at 72
By Nelson M. Chamberlin
Strange, that at 72-years of age a retired United Methodist pastor would be having a first birthday celebration. But that's exactly what my family did for me on April 11.
One year ago, I straight-lined on the cardiac cath table at Methodist Hospital. Two hits with the paddles couldn't bring me back to life. My cardiologist, Dr. Anthony Cossel, performed CPR on me for ten minutes before my heart began to beat again. Within seven minutes, a team of surgeons from Methodist Hospital began open-heart surgery to save my life.
I spent 34 days hospitalized before being sent home and placed in a cardiac rehabilitation program. In February, members of my rehab program submitted my name for the "King of Hearts" award of Hamilton County, a title presented to the person who had the most remarkable recovery from a heart attack. I won the title. My story was passed onto the Indiana Society of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation for state title consideration. My friends from the rehabilitation program figured I might have a slight advantage over the other candidates, having died and come back to life again. I was crowned "Indiana King of Hearts" in late February.
Several have asked me if I had an out-of-the-body experience in which I saw a bright light at the end of a tunnel. My response has been, "I didn't know a thing while I was gone. I didn't know a thing for seven consecutive days while in the Acute Cardiac Care Unit. I didn't see a light at the end of the tunnel, and I didn't feel the fires of hell nipping at my heels either." I know I can trust the end of my life to the decision of my Creator. God will call me when he's ready, and I will be ready when he calls.
I truly believe in miracles. My recovery was one. I give all praise to a loving God. He has given me a second chance at life.
My swift recovery is due in large part to United Methodists throughout Indiana. I am grateful to my family and the thousands who held me in their prayers during this time of great crisis.
And without apportionment money to Methodist Hospital, the miracle in my life wouldn't have been possible. The doctors and nurses there continue to perform miracles every day because of your help. These are some of the rewards of being part of the connectional church.
An experience like this cannot leave one unchanged. I look at every day now with a new appreciation for life. Every moment seems more precious than ever before. I have lived a life of dedication to God and his service. But, even now, I sense a deeper commitment to be available and useful wherever God chooses.
The Rev. Nelson Chamberlin, ret., is a member of the South Indiana Conference.
Last updated January 14, 2004