In the fifteen years we have had our B&B in Deer Harbor, one of the most oft asked questions has been “where do I get medical treatment if I need it while on Orcas?”  I have always answered that we have plenty of good doctors and, if you are an emergency, a helicopter will get you to a trauma center quicker than if you have an accident on I-5.  I couldn’t prove that then but I can now.

On the evening of Feb. 9, I suddenly could not breathe. My wife called 911 and performed a miracle to keep the trauma and the panic under control until the medics could arrive. Even so, I was sure that each gasp was my last.

Julie Remington was the first to arrive – in record time – and what she did and said I can never remember but I also will never forget.  There was hope. Just a few minutes behind Julie came Valerie Harris, Rick Enda, Chad Kimple and Lindsay Schirmer. I wouldn’t be sure what each one of them did but whatever it was for sure was carried out with seamless professionalism and care.  Nine minutes is not much time to get acquainted, but the nurses and the pilot of the helicopter could not have been more reassuring.

I owe a debt to all I can never repay.  Especially to Julie who, when there was no-one to look after our wonderful, elderly and very ill Bruno, took him to her home and subsequently to the fire station where he could relax and enjoy the activity. Bruno held on until my return from a difficult surgery. On February 25, Bruno passed on. He was almost 15 years old.

I would be very remiss if I did not thank those who called, sent cards and dispatched e-mails.  It’s a great place to be alive.

Charlie Binford

Deer Harbor