Everything changed for us Tuesday, June 2, when Michael's heart went into cardiac arrest while in basketball practice at Pequot Lakes High School. Walking into that gymnasium and seeing my child lying on the floor is still hard to believe. How do I begin to thank the many people who were there and helped save my son's life?

I remember seeing numerous First Responders, John Derksen, Pequot Lakes Police Department Officer Josh Gartner and Reserve Sgt. J.D. Berns and the North Ambulance paramedics, all helping Michael to regain his heartbeat.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! Your efforts made it possible for Michael to be airlifted to the Cardiac Care Unit in St. Cloud.

The outpouring of support and generosity from the community reaffirms why we chose to live in Pequot Lakes seven years ago. The Patriots' basketball team, you know who you are, organized a wonderful donation from the students, teachers and staff of the Pequot Lakes School - you make your parents proud.

Thank you, everyone, for your generous gifts. Your concern for Michael means so much. We appreciate all the prayers and words of encouragement.

I want to make special mention of gratitude to Garry Grewe and Brian Lempola. You did everything right, and have been with Michael, and our family, every step of this journey.

My dear friends, Brenda Greer, Robin Goerges and Tina Grewe, your support is invaluable. To my brother-in-law, Larry Mortenson, who "adopted" Jonathan and made several trips to St. Cloud, whenever asked. To my sister, Sue Mortenson, who never left my side and found a way to make me smile and sometimes laugh!

See you soon!

Sincerely,

Jeanne Ward,

Pequot Lakes