Editor:
I am a healthy 80-year-old senior.
I had just finished bowling at the Tsawwassen Lawn Bowling Club on Wednesday, July 14, just after 8 p.m. and was cycling home when I collided with another cyclist on his electric bike.
I remember seeing the bike and then all went blank. I found myself on my back on the asphalt. Someone removed my helmet and sunglasses. The cyclist that I collided with talking to me apologizing. His wife who witnessed the accident also stayed with me.
Someone called 9-1-1 and the call was put on hold for about 10 minutes. A bowling friend was called and she arrived very soon and it was good to hear her voice.
The Delta Fire Department arrived and they kept me talking, taking my vitals and gently examining me. They called for an ambulance but none was available and none could be guaranteed to arrive any time soon. I went into shock and oxygen was applied. I was assured that the crew would not leave me until the ambulance arrived.
About one hour later the ambulance arrived and I was delivered to Delta Hospital.
The doctor saw me about 1:30 a.m. and several x-rays were taken. Incredibly, no broken bones, only some cuts and bruises. Doctors’ orders are to rest with no bowling or cycling for the next few weeks. Again, my bowling friend Jean took me home about 2:45 a.m.
To all cyclists, wear your helmet, never cycle without it. 9-1-1 should never have to put a call on ‘hold.’ To the fire department, you are a great bunch of guys. You were the best thing that happened to me on this evening.
To the paramedics, it is a system that needs an upgrade.
To the hospital, waiting time is long, however, they do the best they can for a small hospital. Thank you to all the staff.
Felice Andersen
