One of the first people I saw today when I walked into the Benton Lion’s Club luncheon was Harry Thompson. As usual, Harry was wearing his signature red baseball cap embellished with the words “Dirty Harry”. His smile was brighter than usual and I gave him a big “Hello!” with a hug. Fifteen minutes later, Harry Thompson died of a heart attack.

Dick and Betty Garner knew CPR, and gallantly tried to save their dear friend. But, today was Harry’s appointment with death, and he slipped into eternity.

The events of today underscore the importance of being trained to administer CPR. If you have never received CPR training, or if you are like me and need a refresher, please contact the local chapters of the American Red Cross, or the American Heart Association. Don’t put it off. Life and death situations don’t schedule themselves on your appointment calendar. In Harry’s memory, I’m signing up tomorrow.