Some think we have the lost the art of connection.

I was one of them.

It started with back pain on a Tuesday flight to Ottawa to be in the Senate of Canada with Thomas Lukaszuk. He was being recognized for his lead and vision on the Forever Canadian movement.

It was this political nerd’s dream to watch it all unfold.

We flew home Thursday after several meetings, including the Prime Minister’s Office, with a warm glow but also reinvigorated knowing we have a lot a work ahead.

And by Saturday, I felt like I was hit by a truck.

By Tuesday, I hadn’t left my bed.

Extreme muscle fatigue.

No appetite.

So cold.

So hot.

And then the shakes.

I credit my son and my best friend for pushing me to go the emergency room. They saved my life. I thought it was only the flu.

Extreme low blood pressure.

Extreme low hemoglobin.

Disorientation.

Rapid heart rate.

Shortness of breath.

I zoned out.

Through the pain, I heard

Kidney infection.

Sepsis.

If you are really sick, our health care system kicks in like a well-oiled machine.

Yes, there are wait times. Yes, the system is imperfect.  And yes, many are overworked.

Despite all of that, the healing hands of two hospitals, countless doctors, nurses, and others picked me up, listened, saved my life and have gently placed me on the path of healing.

Thank you nurse Celine for the reminder.

I feel cared for and most loved.

And if that isn’t connection, I don’t know what is.