Note to self

Unknown territory, for sure. I saw and touched my first dead body last week. My elderly neighbour had fallen against her front door and was tangled in her walking frame, which meant I couldn't get in. I was able to feel for pulse and heartbeat, but she was stone cold. That meant it was okay to push the door harder and squeeze round, and it was weird sitting on the floor beside her until the ambulance arrived. You know how in movies someone always closes the eyes? Well, I had a go and they wouldn't close. Apparently the muscles prevent that in some cases.

So there it lay, and I wondered where she'd gone. Creepy indeed to know she wouldn't experience anything ever again. For the first time in my life I couldn't get my head round the implications of a dead body. I suppose it's possible she was watching me from somewhere, but I preferred not to think about that.

Do let us know when you need a reminder about calling an emergency helpline.