Dear Resusci Annie

Dear Resusci Annie,

I know we just met and this seems forward,

Excuse my hands as I place them thus,

Two fingers at your bust,

Elbows bent- prepared to thrust,

Before I start, perhaps, a word?

-

This class will prepare me to save a life,

Once I get the nod to start,

Compressions meant to wake a heart,

Synchronize breath like it's an art,

Keep my cool in the midst of strife.

_

Before I press my mouth to yours,

I was curious about whence you came.

How did you get your name?

Are you a creation- a fantasy dame?

A generic doll for sale in stores?

_

What I discovered gave me pause.

I learned that Annie was once alive,

And not much older than 10 plus 5,

When into the River Seine did dive,

and drowned, though no one knew the cause.

-

I learned the doctor made a wax mask of death,

Enchanted by the eerie air of stilled beauty and calm,

Parisians had copies, displayed with much aplomb,

On shelves next to stitched samplers of favorite psalm,

Now you, with breathing stilled, teach us to practice breath.

-

They chose you for your beautiful face,

Millions since: your lips have kissed,

Skills taught, lives saved, too many to list

Compressions! Breath! The rhythm persist!

While your eyes lay closed, reposing grace.

-

Annie, you're more than just a CPR doll-

Wherever you are, I hope you're blessed.

Know that, as strangers fumble at your breast,

Using Staying Alive, or the song they like best,

Equipping them to save lives if they get the call.

Sincerely,

Judey (and everyone that has been saved through the use of CPR)

-

Here is the research that inspired this poem, written as an Envelope Quintet, with the rhyme scheme abbba:

If you enjoy learning about the stories behind things- I think you'll enjoy this:

Here are some fun things bodies can do; how many apply to you?

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You can also find me on Medium.