by Heidi Nestor, Writer and Editor, Life Alert

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house,
Not a creature was stirring not even my spouse.
My medications were set by the bed stand with care,
In hopes that a good night’s sleep would soon be here.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Down the stairs I flew, perhaps a bit too quick,
forgetting about my arthritic foot, knee, and bad hip.

As I started to fall I looked for something to brace,
grabbing my table with Santa’s village and holiday lace.
But down I went to the floor below,
Bring with me the village, lace and artificial snow.

Lying on the floor surrounded by Christmas debris,
I had massacred Santa’s workshop, some elves, and trees.
Try as I might, I couldn’t move at all,
Not even roll to the phone to make a call.

“Help, I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” I declared,
Hoping my husband would hear me up stairs.
But sound asleep he was, nestled in our bed,
With visions of Christmas turkey dancing in his head.

When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
Upon my chest among all the plastic reindeer?
My Life Alert pendant shining like a gift from heaven,
So I can call for help, fast, 24/7.

After pushing my help button, a reassuring voice, I must say,
Was keeping me calm while help was on the way.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard at the door,
The knocking of help to lift me from the floor.

The firemen suddenly appeared like Santa’s magic elves,
And I laughed with relief, in spite of myself.
Dressed in uniforms, professional from head to foot,
Their clothes were clean and neat, no ashes or soot.

A bundle of tools were set on the floor,
They checked my vitals and so much more.
In no time, upon my feet walking I was able,
They even set Santa’s village back on the table.

My night before Christmas fall had been put to the test,
Resulting in Life Alert Emergency Response being the best.
With 5 areas of protections for the family and home,
From monitored help, smoke/gas alarms, and even a mobile phone.

One touch of a button sends help immediately,
For medical, fall, fire and other emergencies.
So I can maintain an independent lifestyle,
With confidence, security, and a victorious smile.

I am ever so grateful to my Life Alert Protection,
And the EMTs, who cleaned everything up, leaving no detection.
I heard one of them exclaim as they drove out of sight,
Be careful, stay safe and to all a good night.