I was contacted on Thursday afternoon asking if I was available today to perform the National Anthem. It was a little tricky since I couldn’t give an exact yes or no. I had my standby day at work today but was number 5 on the list.. it was hard to anticipate if I would get called in or not. So I said yes with the possibility of a late no.

Yesterday I found out that I had to work a night shift. Well the good was at least that I could still do the performance and if I did it in uniform I would save some time. I would prepare everything and if there was time I would stop at home and let the dogs out. Everything was set in stone.

I knew that it would be a quite small event. It was late in the making and I had not seen any information about it, nevertheless it was as important as all other memorial events today! Sherri, the organizer had done a great job pulling it all together. She got Mayor Carmona to attend as well!

My performance went well. I still had some nerves but had no problems remembering the lyrics this time thankfully (as I did on 4th of July).

When I arrived to the event there was a man standing under a tree, avoiding the sun. I recognized him from somewhere but couldn’t put a finger on where I’ve seen him. Nothing on him told me who he was and someone addressed him as Jason. After my performance we spoke and it turned out that we met exactly 4 years ago. At the time he worked as a Chaplain at Mother Frances and he came to my bedside the days after my cardiac arrest, and tomorrow is the 4 year anniversary. He told me he used to wear a vest and it all just clicked. I don’t remember what we talked about but I do remember us having a good conversation during my stay. It gave me chills that we met again exactly 4 years later… amazing!

There was time for me to head home and let the dogs out. Suddenly the phone rings and it was work. Well, I better answer… and I’m glad I did. I didn’t how or why but the content of the call was that I didn’t have to go in to work tonight! Seriously?!? What a relief! Even though I was mentally prepared at this time for a night shift, I knew how much it wears on me. I have a rough week next week so I can be without that shift and money. My health is more important.

So I took off my uniform, changed to work out clothes and took a walk with the boys instead, enjoying the great afternoon I had and what a blessing it was to sing the Anthem and meet so many nice people! I certainly needed this load of positive and good vibes after working quite hard lately.

More pictures from the event today can be found in the photo gallery!