On June 1st, around noon, I suffered what turned out to be a heart attack. A 911 call had Maple Valley Fire and Life Safety emergency medical technicians (EMTs) in my home in about 10 minutes.

The three EMTs quickly determined that I was having a heart attack, and immediately began appropriate care. They then called King County’s Medic 1 for more elaborate care and transport to Valley Medical Center’s emergency room. The Medic 1 duo arrived within minutes, made their assessment of my condition, and quickly had me in their ambulance, providing care while heading for Valley. Driving rapidly, but safely, they called ahead to the emergency room to be prepared for a cardiac patient. Luck was with me that day, as upon arrival, the ER staff immediately began to treat me. Later, I learned from the emergency room cardiac doctor, that had I arrived five minutes later, I would not now be writing this letter.

I give my heart felt thanks and gratitude to all those who made it possible for me to survive and to be with my family. We plan to meet and personally thank them all.

In my humble opinion and based on my recent experience I can truly state that the taxpayers are receiving excellent value for their taxes that provide for emergency services.

Anthony E. Pomata

Maple Valley