Rescuers Restore Faith in Humanity

* In a time when there is so much violence and scandals that corrupt our cities, it is a relief to know that there are people that only want to help others. Too often we only hear about the negative and rarely the positive.

Newport Beach in recent months has been plagued with a lot of scandals. Our city is not all negative. On July 14, I was down at the Wedge, a popular place for bodysurfing in our community, and suffered an acute asthma attack in which I could have died. Thanks to the Newport Beach Marine Department, the Newport Beach Fire Department and the emergency-room staff at Hoag Hospital, I am still alive.

I know this may not be news, but these people went out of their way to keep me alive.

I was scared and alone, but the team that responded to that call made me feel secure and, thankfully, I am still here. I know it may not be a big deal to them, but it is to me.

I am 24 years old, have suffered from asthma all my life and have never come so close to dying as I did that day. It means a great deal to me to know that so many people are willing to go out of their way to help me when I need it.

I am just writing to let you know how important these people are to me and the community at large.

JULIE MOORE

Newport Beach