The EMT, His Spanish Teacher, and the Stranger Dying of AIDS

one helluva story

from JoeUser Forums

You know I don't care to post the "3 lines and a link" variety of blog, but I ran across this story through BlogExplosion just now and had to share it.

"Mr. Viola was not your typical Spanish teacher. He had this funny way of walking, possibly caused by his pants being pulled up into his armpits. I guess you could say he walked like a duck or a penguin. He was always playing disco music in the class during a lesson. We never understood why."

You have to click here now to read the rest.

Truly an amazing and touching slice-of-life. It's worth it.

1,537 views 4 replies
Reply #1 from JoeUser Forums Top
You were right, it was worth it.

All of us who ride ambulance could fill the Library of Congress with the stories of blood, guts and gore. We're usually willing to share a few with whoever is willing to listen. The real stories however, are the ones we just can't seem to get ourselves to tell. They are also the ones that, if we did tell, the listener would usually walk away disappointed for the lack of "blood, guts and gore".

People often asked me how we can stand all the "blood, guts and gore". The truth is, the blood, guts and gore isn't the worst we experience. The truth is, the parts that are worse are the ones that make it all worth it.
Reply #2 from JoeUser Forums Top
Hello Gene;

Just wanted you to know that I am extremely grateful for the link back to my post. I am so happy that you and others have found it moving. I tis entirely one-hundred percent true and I have never been able to get the images out of my head. I can't remember the color of blood, but the look in his eyes will never escape me.

Again, my sincere gratitude.

I wish you luck with all your blogs. It certainly looks like you have your hands full!

Have fun!

Dan Leone

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Reply #3 from JoeUser Forums Top

when i first saw your post i was pressed for time and didnt want to have to rush thru something you'd found so impressive.  im glad i waited til i was able to devote to dan leone's very powerful recollection the time it deserved.  thanks taking time and putting forth the effort to provide us the link. 

(after rereading it several times, i'm thinking that's not justa slice of life--more like a slab?)

Reply #4 from JoeUser Forums Top
ParaTed2k and Dan,

I'd like to thank you both for the jobs you do. You guys are every bit the American heros that Police Officers and Fire Fighters are, and I think that gets forgotten sometimes. Where would we be without you guys (and gals)?

Again, my sincere gratitude.


I'm always glad to bring quality work to a wider audience.


thanks taking time and putting forth the effort to provide us the link. 


I felt compelled to. It wanted to be shared.

(after rereading it several times, i'm thinking that's not justa slice of life--more like a slab?)


I wish I'd been creative enough to come up with that.