Bob the Builder Saved My Life!

(Editor's Note: Thanks to reader Addie Carroll for sending in this story.)

You’ve heard the expression that life can turn on a dime?  Well, if it wasn’t for a gentleman named Bob Rogers; my life would have possibly taken quite the turn. The day was business as usual, with the exception of a crew of three doing some repair work at my home. The contractor, Bob, was supervising the job and we exchanged the usual greetings and small talk.

I returned from running errands and decided to grab a quick lunch before moving on the next scheduled appointment. I heated up a left over steak and began eating (in my usual fashion), standing up over the kitchen counter.  Glancing at the news and chewing, I suddenly realized a piece of steak was stuck in my throat. 

First thought, cough. That didn’t work. I grabbed a glass of water and tried to drink. That didn’t work. At that point I realized I was in trouble. I ran into the bedroom where the crew was out on the deck working. Bob, the contractor, asked if I was OK. Shaking my head no, he knew I was in trouble. 

Bob grabbed me from behind and pushed on my rib cage. My head was whirling and when I tell you I had visions of my kids and my grandkids flash before me, I am dead serious! After a second push, out popped the piece of steak and my knees weakened. I turned to Bob and just kept repeating: “You saved my life!” 

The poor crew looked horrified and Bob remained calm and replied with: “I’m happy to help.” Happy to help? It’s an immeasurable gesture that can never be repaid or given enough accolades.  

How do I say thank you for saving my life? How do I reciprocate for this act of heroism?  Sadly, I have no one way or no one answer. So, I guess this public thank you from the bottom of my heart and from my kids, and beautiful grandkids will have to do.

Bob Rogers, you are a gift and always will be to me and my family. You are my hero. Thank you for saving my life.