To the man who asked me the questions on the way from my shed to the Westpac rescue helicopter.

I don’t even know your name.

Thank you so much for taking me away.

I’d never been more grateful than I was in that moment.

I had made peace with dying.

I was ready.  I was relieved it would finally be over.

And then there you were wheeling me out asking me to tell you my name and address and if I understood what was going on.

I was so happy and ready to live right then.

I’m grateful to everyone involved with saving my life and putting me back together.

But especially to everyone that came to my home that day, thank you.

To the first responders, and the helicopter team that came to Pipiroa, thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you did.

I’m so sorry that events in my life put you through such trauma.

I can only imagine what it is like to come upon such carnage.

To the Doctor from Ngatea that found us first.

I’m sorry I don’t know your name either.

It’s written down somewhere, I’m sure.

Thank you so much for all you did.

Your actions from the moment you stepped into my house kept us alive.

To the policemen that came in.

I heard that you had to have time off because of the trauma you experienced seeing us chopped up.

I am so sorry that events in my life caused you so much pain and stress.

Every day I have so much gratitude flowing through me for all of you.

I wanted to let you know I appreciate all you did for me back then in 2003.

I think of you often and wonder how you are.

If perhaps, I can help you now.

One day I would love to thank you all in person for all you have done for me.

I am so grateful and determined to help others, just like you helped me.

Lastly, to my beautiful friend Roger.

You are the real reason I am alive.

Without you there was no hope.

You are the only reason he stopped.

You put your life on the line to get him away from us.

Knowing full well he could turn on you at any time and you might die.

Your bravery and courage on the most savage day of our life is why I am here to write this now.

Without you there would have been no one for them to save.

Words don’t seem adequate to express how grateful I am to you for everything you did that day.

You are my hero and I am forever in your debt.

Thank you.

To all of you, 1000 times, thank you.

There is so much goodness in my life now and I am so grateful to be here.

I have many people to thank for so many things.

I live my entire life in gratitude.

I feel very lucky and blessed to be here.

Much love and gratitude to you all.

Simonne xxxx

Part two coming soon.