[TNLAKEPANDA]

I think they were just clowning around!

[graciegirl]

Originally Posted by krausaj

Before this becomes a circus, let me offer clarification of this story from the actual clown who had the heart attack.
We were returning from an event at Disney's Contemporary Hotel for a non profit organization called Kids Beating Cancer. This is one of many events The Villages Clown Alley 179 supports with total commitment
I began to experience heart attack symptoms a short time into the ride. The bus driver called ahead for the emergency squad to meet us on the turnpike as my symptoms were becoming more acute. We were, of course, in full costume. I remained on the bus and 32 brightly costumed clowns got out of the bus so that the EMT's could help me. Fire rescue and FHP were also on the scene. We clowns had truly shut down the road and created quite a spectacle. The EMT's got me out and into their ambulance while my fellow clowns and friends applauded and cheered. It was terrible to experience and scary for all of us. The end of the story is that The EMT's were amazing and kind and The Villages Regional Hospital ER and cardiac floor provided excellent and compassionate care to this clown who entered their ER in full face and costume. I did have a heart attack and was one lucky clown because there were no blockages or severe harm to my heart.They cracked jokes and kept me going. They talked about taking selfies and were still professional. Not a laughing matter, but certainly one that had moments of humor. Imagine seeing all those clowns on the side of the road!
Imagine all the good they did they did that day with the children who were part of Kids Beating Cancer. Imagine the funny turns any life can take... I will be fine and will bbe clowning with all my heart... Rufflez

Hugs to you and sincere wishes for your continued good health...and many thanks for the good you do.

[Indydealmaker]

Originally Posted by graciegirl

I shouldn't have done that. I was afraid it truly was something serious.

DougBEE is always kiddin' around and I knew he wasn't kidding this time.

I am embarrassed and sorry.

Gracie, It was a story within a story and your post WAS funny and not in any way offensive.

[Barefoot]

Originally Posted by krausaj

Before this becomes a circus, let me offer clarification of this story from the actual clown who had the heart attack.
We were returning from an event at Disney's Contemporary Hotel for a non profit organization called Kids Beating Cancer. This is one of many events The Villages Clown Alley 179 supports with total commitment
I began to experience heart attack symptoms a short time into the ride. The bus driver called ahead for the emergency squad to meet us on the turnpike as my symptoms were becoming more acute. We were, of course, in full costume. I remained on the bus and 32 brightly costumed clowns got out of the bus so that the EMT's could help me. Fire rescue and FHP were also on the scene. We clowns had truly shut down the road and created quite a spectacle. The EMT's got me out and into their ambulance while my fellow clowns and friends applauded and cheered. It was terrible to experience and scary for all of us. The end of the story is that The EMT's were amazing and kind and The Villages Regional Hospital ER and cardiac floor provided excellent and compassionate care to this clown who entered their ER in full face and costume. I did have a heart attack and was one lucky clown because there were no blockages or severe harm to my heart.They cracked jokes and kept me going. They talked about taking selfies and were still professional. Not a laughing matter, but certainly one that had moments of humor. Imagine seeing all those clowns on the side of the road!
Imagine all the good they did they did that day with the children who were part of Kids Beating Cancer. Imagine the funny turns any life can take... I will be fine and will bbe clowning with all my heart... Rufflez

Your story is inspirational, and you continue to have a great sense of humor about the situation.
I'm really glad you're OK.
Thanks you for all the joy you spread. You clowns are the best!

[tomwed]

When you are feeling up to it. PM me. I want to take you out to eat. I would like to hang out with people who want to cheer kids up. I want to help too.

[PammyJ]

We saw the clowns on the turnpike. The fire truck had just arrived. The clowns standing outside, made us smile and say, "only in the villages!" However, we knew something not so good was happening. I am glad it turned out ok.

[raynan]

So glad you are okay. You all bring such joy in what you do and want you to know how much it is appreciated.

[vorage]

Originally Posted by krausaj

Before this becomes a circus, let me offer clarification of this story from the actual clown who had the heart attack.
We were returning from an event at Disney's Contemporary Hotel for a non profit organization called Kids Beating Cancer. This is one of many events The Villages Clown Alley 179 supports with total commitment
I began to experience heart attack symptoms a short time into the ride. The bus driver called ahead for the emergency squad to meet us on the turnpike as my symptoms were becoming more acute. We were, of course, in full costume. I remained on the bus and 32 brightly costumed clowns got out of the bus so that the EMT's could help me. Fire rescue and FHP were also on the scene. We clowns had truly shut down the road and created quite a spectacle. The EMT's got me out and into their ambulance while my fellow clowns and friends applauded and cheered. It was terrible to experience and scary for all of us. The end of the story is that The EMT's were amazing and kind and The Villages Regional Hospital ER and cardiac floor provided excellent and compassionate care to this clown who entered their ER in full face and costume. I did have a heart attack and was one lucky clown because there were no blockages or severe harm to my heart.They cracked jokes and kept me going. They talked about taking selfies and were still professional. Not a laughing matter, but certainly one that had moments of humor. Imagine seeing all those clowns on the side of the road!
Imagine all the good they did they did that day with the children who were part of Kids Beating Cancer. Imagine the funny turns any life can take... I will be fine and will bbe clowning with all my heart... Rufflez

Oh this so touched my heart. I am so happy you are ok and agree with all those who mentioned the wonderful work you all do. Since it turned out so well, this will probably become a legendary event for everyone who was involved, who witnessed it, or read about it here. This is the kind of thing they put on that Sunday morning TV program. At least they should!

[Madelaine Amee]

Originally Posted by krausaj

Before this becomes a circus, let me offer clarification of this story from the actual clown who had the heart attack.
We were returning from an event at Disney's Contemporary Hotel for a non profit organization called Kids Beating Cancer. This is one of many events The Villages Clown Alley 179 supports with total commitment
I began to experience heart attack symptoms a short time into the ride. The bus driver called ahead for the emergency squad to meet us on the turnpike as my symptoms were becoming more acute. We were, of course, in full costume. I remained on the bus and 32 brightly costumed clowns got out of the bus so that the EMT's could help me. Fire rescue and FHP were also on the scene. We clowns had truly shut down the road and created quite a spectacle. The EMT's got me out and into their ambulance while my fellow clowns and friends applauded and cheered. It was terrible to experience and scary for all of us. The end of the story is that The EMT's were amazing and kind and The Villages Regional Hospital ER and cardiac floor provided excellent and compassionate care to this clown who entered their ER in full face and costume. I did have a heart attack and was one lucky clown because there were no blockages or severe harm to my heart.They cracked jokes and kept me going. They talked about taking selfies and were still professional. Not a laughing matter, but certainly one that had moments of humor. Imagine seeing all those clowns on the side of the road!
Imagine all the good they did they did that day with the children who were part of Kids Beating Cancer. Imagine the funny turns any life can take... I will be fine and will bbe clowning with all my heart... Rufflez

Thank you for posting the true account of "clowns on the highway", and so graciously after such an ordeal. Doug is the resident TOTV joker and when I first read the story I thought it was one of his jokes, but then I got to thinking how very difficult and embarrassing it must have been for you all to be put in that situation ....... the gawkers driving by must have had a field day!

So glad you are OK and keep up your good work.

[krausaj]

It was serious

[krausaj]

It was quite the experience.

[Walter123]

Originally Posted by krausaj

It was quite the experience.

I'm glad that you're ok and that your sense of humor is intact. I hope that the part of your heart that makes you want to do what you do stays healthy always.
I don't know anyone that does not smile when they see a clown, except maybe Kramer from Seinfeld.

[krausaj]

We were doing good things for wonderful children.

[krausaj]

Thank you!

[krausaj]

Thank you! I am glad to be here!