Second Chances copyright 2001 Kajakat and Betty Kaitlin ran in circles laughing as her Poppie, Roy, tried to catch her. Her face glowed with happiness all the time, from the love she received from all the adults in her life. Her skin, tanned from the summer, looked just like her Daddy. Her hair, a soft brown, if loose, hung mid way down her back. Jenny carefully placed the long locks into a French braid every morning to keep it looking nice. Even then, a few strands always escaped the clasps and dangled on the sides of her face. Her blue eyes, the same color as her Poppie, sparkled as she giggled. Occasionally she would let her Poppie grab her. She loved the way he would pretend to tickle her making her giggle even louder. "Jenny? What are you doing?" JoAnne asked walking over to her daughter who was standing, staring out into the backyard of her and Johnny's home.  It was a lovely summer day and the Gages & DeSotos were spending the late afternoon together. "Looking at Dad and Kaitlin. It's so funny Mom. I remember when it was Dad who sat on the deck watching Johnny play with Chris and me.  And now, it's Johnny sitting on the deck, watching Dad play with Kaitlin.  I sometimes worry about him and the fact that he can't run around with her."  Jenny's concerns ran deeper than that, but she couldn't tell that to her mom, at least not yet. JoAnne moved over to the patio doors to stand behind her daughter. She too smiled as she watched Roy chasing Kaitlin around the Gages' back yard. He was laughing. Truly enjoying himself. Then she looked at Johnny, emotionless, sitting and absorbing all of the action." I see what you mean." "Dad seems happy," Jenny said. Then turning to face her mother she asked, "Mom. Has Dad accepted us? I mean completely accepted us?" JoAnne's smile left her face. "Sort of Jenny. You know your Dad. He's a very proud man and it's not easy for him to admit he may have been wrong." "I know. I wish that one day, he and Johnny will be able to put it all behind them," Jenny said. "Me too, Jenny. Me too," JoAnne answered. "Maybe one day it will be like old times again." With that the two ladies walked out onto the deck. Jenny walked over to her husband who was sitting down and planted a kiss on his cheek. "I do think our Kaitlin is getting the best of her Poppie." Johnny laughed. "I think so too, but you better not say that to him. He'll think you're calling him old and you know how us old fellows feel about that," he said winking. "Old, my ass.  Remember last night?"  Jenny asked with a seductive smile. Johnny cringed with embarrassment. "Jenny, not in front of your mother!!"  JoAnne smiled. Changing her tone, Jenny continued,  "You and Dad are going to live forever." Johnny reached up to grasp Jenny's hand and gave it a squeeze, "I sure hope so because I don't want to miss out on Kaitlin growing up and I'm sure Roy doesn't want to either." "Roy," JoAnne hollered. "It's time for a break. You've been at it for almost an hour now." Roy stopped when he heard his wife. He quickly scooped Kaitlin up and placed her over his shoulder in a fireman's carry. Holding her close to his face he took in her aroma. He loved the way she smelled; that fragrance of baby shampoo.  She giggled as Roy walked toward the deck. "Poppie," she snickered putting her hands over her mouth. "Put me down. I don't need rescue." "Are you sure about that, young lady?" Roy exclaimed as he rubbed his face into her belly once again. "Yes," she giggled some more.  Once Roy stepped up next to his wife and daughter, he briskly swooped her off his shoulder and placed her into her father's lap. "She's all yours." "Thanks Roy. You get her all hyper and leave her to me to deal with."  The squirming child shifted in her father's lap. "That's what grandfathers are for. Besides I think some pay back is called for." Roy said with a big smile on his face. "Excuse me," Johnny replied cocking his brow. "Are you that old that you forget making my kids hyper, then leaving them with me to deal with?" Johnny mocked scratching his head, "I think I can recall something like that," he answered with a laugh.  Kaitlin started to play with Johnny's cane and accidentally knocked it down onto the deck. "UHHO," she said covering her face with her hands. Jenny placed her hands on her hips. "Now look what you did young lady!  How many times have I told you not to play with Daddy's cane?" Jenny said sternly. "I didn't mean too Mommy. It was accident," Kaitlin said sneaking a peek out through her fingers. Johnny laughed and scooped his daughter into a tight bear hug. "I'll protect you Kitty Kate," he whispered into her ear while giving Jenny a wink. Kaitlin burrowed into her father's arms, hiding her face waiting to see if her mommy was going to say anything else. When she didn't hear anything, Kaitlin turned her head slowly and peeked out around her father's arms. Suddenly the adults began to laugh at the little one's antics. Kaitlin covered her face again with her hands and began to giggle as Johnny tickled her. "No fair Daddy," she laughed squirming to get away.  Finally Jenny reached for her daughter. "I do think it's time for a bath young lady, then it's off to bed." "Oh Mommy, can Poppie read me story before he go home?" "You'll have to ask Poppie about that?" "Poppie," Kaitlin said shyly. "Will you stay and read to me? PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE!!!!" Using her best charms on Roy. "I think I can be persuaded to do that so long as you go straight to bed afterwards and don't give your Mommy and Daddy any trouble." Roy answered sternly, softly pointing his index finger at her. "I promise," she replied sheepishly with a grin reminiscent of her father's. "I'll help you honey," JoAnne answered grasping Kaitlin's other hand. Together the two ladies and Kaitlin walked back into the house. Roy took a deep breath and sank into one of the lounge chairs. He closed his eyes briefly and took some more deep breaths. Johnny glanced over at his old friend. "Are you okay Roy," he asked noticing Roy's weakness and shortness of breath. Roy waved him off. "Yeah. I think I may have over done it with your daughter. I just need to rest for a bit that's all." "Are you sure, Roy? I mean you're not looking that great." Johnny said full of concern. "What are you, going paramedic on me?" Roy mocked.  If you remember, Junior, I too was a paramedic at one time and I tell ya I'm fine." "If you say so, Roy. Besides I'm in no shape to argue with you. I sure as hell can't sling you over my shoulder and carry you to Rampart." Roy laughed. "What's so funny?" Johnny smiled. "Us Johnny. I think both of us are ready for a retirement home." "Speak for yourself Roy. I happen to feel like I'm twenty years old." Roy arched his eyebrow. "You sure about that?" "Well maybe thirty. How's that." "I guess I can give you that. I think I'm gonna take it easy for the rest of the evening. I have to work tomorrow. As soon as I finish reading to Kaitlin, I think JoAnne and I will head home for the night." Roy walked upstairs to Kaitlin's room.  She was in her bed, holding three of her Pooh bears.  She had a book on her bed ready for her Poppie to read to her. Kaitlin was asleep before her Poppie finished reading. After giving her a light kiss goodnight, Roy walked out of Kaitlin's bedroom and closed the door behind him. He stopped briefly feeling dizzy. He leaned up against the wall and breathed deeply. Once his lightheadedness faded, he joined his family in the living room. "Kaitlin's bedroom looks real nice," he said. "I guess she really likes her Pooh Bears, huh.  She made me memorize each one of them!" "You noticed," Johnny answered. "That's all she can talk about. Pooh Bear this, Pooh Bear that. She watches it on TV three times a day and we have several videotapes of Pooh too. I swear I know them all from start to finish, word for word." Roy laughed, and then looked at his daughter. "It seems to me I remember a certain young lady that had a thing for Mickey Mouse at one time." "Would you spare me, Dad? I really don't need for that information to leak out." Jenny scolded in a friendly sort of way. "Oh and just what do I get if I keep my lips zipped," he replied laughing, motioning sealing his lips. "I don't know. What do you want?" Jenny smirked narrowing her brow. "How about you let Kaitlin stay with us for a weekend sometime soon? That way this old man here can have a rest," Roy snickered slapping Johnny on the back. Placing his hand over his heart, Johnny scoffed, "Old man? Old man? Are you kidding me Roy? Have you forgotten that you're almost two years older than me?" "Well tell me Junior, who here is capable of keeping up with that little lady, anyway." Roy joked. Johnny narrowed his brow and scowled at his friend.  Roy's smile left his face when he realized he touched a nerve in his old friend, reminding him of his disability. "I'm sorry, pal. I didn't mean…" Johnny frowned as Roy reminded him of his injury that ending his active firefighting career eight years ago.  "Don't worry about it, Roy. I know you didn't mean anything by it." Not wanting to start a DeSoto guilt trip Johnny changed the topic. "Look, would you and JoAnne like some coffee before you leave?" "No. Thanks anyway, Johnny, but I think it's about time JoAnne and I get home. Remember, I have to work tomorrow. I have to be at the station by 6:30 am." Roy answered. Johnny stood. Grabbing his cane, he walked his friends to the door. "Thanks for coming," he said. "Kaitlin had a great time with her Poppie." "Well Poppie had a great time with Kaitlin too," Roy replied. Before he walked out of Johnny's house, he gripped his old friend's hand for a firm shake. "Thanks for having us over." "Thanks for coming, Roy. You're always welcome here. You don't need an invitation." Roy nodded. He then gave his daughter a kiss on her cheek and a hug then walked out the front door.  JoAnne also hugged and kissed both Jenny and Johnny before hurrying out behind her husband. "I'll call you tomorrow, Jenny," she said as she stepped down off the front porch and headed for the car. During the drive home, Roy felt tightness in his chest. He dismissed it as fatigue. Having worked a double shift and only one-day off in-between, he didn't get much rest. And then his granddaughter kept him hopping most of the afternoon. He wasn't surprised when she fell asleep before he finished The Honey Cake Mix-Up, one of eighteen Pooh books she had. Taking a few deep breaths, the tightness subsided. He decided once he got home, he would sit back in his favorite chair and rest, till it was time to head to bed. He really wanted to do his nightly ritual of watching the 10 PM news before bed. Unfortunately, his tired body had other ideas. Roy fell asleep in his chair, shortly after nine. JoAnne was able to get him stirred enough, to head up to bed. Roy slept fitfully the remainder of the night. When he woke in the morning, he felt like the engine at his station had run him down. Ignoring how he felt, Roy showered, dressed, ate breakfast with JoAnne, and left for work. *** Stash O'Neil looked up to see his partner walking into the kitchen. "Is Cap still in the office," he asked as he placed sautéed mushrooms and steaks onto the table. "Yeah, I think so," Jake Dooley replied. "I'll get him," he said turning and walking back out of the room. "While your at it, Jake, call Butch in from out back too," Stash hollered. With Rick Spence and Calvin Todd's help, Stash had the table set and the rest of the meal was placed on it before the others walked into the kitchen. "Where's Cap, Dooley? I thought you were gonna get him," Stash said. "I did. He said he'd be here in a minute." Dooley replied. "How did he look?" Stash asked. "Why?" "I don't know, after overhauling that fire this afternoon, he didn't look all that good. He was sweating and seemed like he was short of breath. Of course when I asked, he brushed me off, said he was fine." "We were all sweating Stash," Rick commented. "After all it's nearly the end of August, it's hot out, and low in behold we were battling the beast. If you ask me, with the combination of those three things, anyone would be out of breath and sweating." "You know Rick, maybe you better stop inhaling all that smoke at the fires. I do think it's starting to have an effect on your brain." Dooley mocked. "Oh I forgot. Mister Paramedic here knows everything." Rick said sarcastically. "Would the two of you can it for five minutes? Better yet how about the rest of the shift. You're spoiling my appetite and this is one meal I really don't want to miss. The sautéed mushrooms are calling me to eat them." Butch growled. "What's going on in here?" Roy asked walking into the kitchen. "Nothing sir," Stash replied. "The stomachs are rumbling and we waiting for you." "Well don't wait any longer. EAT. And that's an order," Roy asserted before walking over to the sink for a glass of water." "Are you okay, Cap," Stash asked noticing how pale his Captain was. "Yeah. I'm dry. I just need a drink of water. I'll join you all in a minute," he answered. Roy turned the tap on and then grabbed a glass out of the cupboard. Just when he was about to fill his glass with cold water, a sharp crushing, constricting pain radiated in the center of his chest. Dropping the glass, he clutched his chest and began to slouch toward the floor. The sound of the glass shattering alerted the others in the room. Stash and Dooley quickly ran over to their Captain and eased him back onto the floor. "Get the equipment," Stash yelled to no one in particular. "And call for an ambulance," Dooley added. The movement inside the kitchen was brisk as Rick and Calvin ran to the squad for the equipment. Roy was lying on the floor. Weak, short of breath, and sweating, he clutched his chest in severe pain. Dooley started to unbutton Roy's shirt.  He took his scissor and cut the undershirt.   Butch, the engineer, called the problem into the dispatcher and afterwards, joined his team in the kitchen, watching Stash and Dooley. "Hurts."  Roy said.  His face was distorted with pain and he was sweating profusely. "Here Cap, this should help."  Stash said as he placed the nasal cannula over Roy's nose. Dooley applied the patches to Roy's chest and hooked up the EKG.  He looked at it but didn't react.  He turned the monitor around so Stash could see it. "Okay, what's it show?"  Roy asked. "Cap, it shows the Radio City Rockettes are dancing in your chest.  Just relax.  We're gonna get the med's ready and then take you to Rampart. "Call my wife.  Call JoAnne." Roy said, having difficulty breathing. Butch heard his cap.  "Okay Cap and I'll call Chief Stanley and let him know." Roy nodded his head and closed his eyes.  Dooley started an IV and inserted the drugs he knew to use.  With the drugs in Roy's system, his pulse rate slowed and his heart rate returned to a normal beat and his body began to relax. Once Dooley and Stash were satisfied that their Captain was okay, they helped the ambulance attendants load him onto the gurney. Stash placed the data scope and oxygen between Roy's legs. Dooley held the IV's they administered and Roy was wheeled out to the ambulance parked in the front driveway. As they were passing by the squad, Butch came out of Roy's office.  "Cap," Butch interrupted. "I talked to Chief Stanley.  He's taken us off line.  I called your home, but all I got your answering machine.  Want me to call Chris or Jen?" he asked. Roy shook his head no.  "Call Johnny," he said taking a deep breath. Butch nodded and waited till Roy was loaded into the ambulance and it pulled away before walking back into the office to call Captain Gage. *** Johnny was just about ready to leave for the day when his phone rang. "This better be good because I'm tired and I just want to go home," he said hobbling across his office to his desk. "Hello," he said firmly into the receiver. "Captain Gage. This is Butch Russo, 45's engineer." "Yes, Butch. What can I do for you?" Johnny answered, as a sick feeling began to creep into his stomach. "Stash and Dooley are bringing Captain DeSoto to Rampart. I haven't been able to get a hold of his wife. He asked me to call you." "What happened to him, Butch," Johnny asked not really needing an answer remembering how Roy looked after playing with Kaitlin. "We think he's had a heart attack, Sir," Butch replied. Johnny closed his eyes and sank into his chair after hearing Butch's words. "Cap'n Gage, are you okay, Sir?" Butch asked. "Yes, Butch. When did they leave?" "About two minutes ago. They had him stabilized before they left. He was looking better and breathing much easier." "Butch, have you called Chief Stanley yet?" "Yes sir. He's stood us down for the time being, sir.  And he'll notify Chris." "Thank for calling, Butch." Johnny said. He then quickly depressed the button on his phone so he could make another call. "Rampart Emergency, Dixie McCall speaking." "Dix. This is John Gage." "Hi Johnny, what can I do for ya?" "Listen, is Morton there?" "Yes he is, just a sec." Before Johnny could say anything more, Dix was gone and Morton came onto the line. "Johnny, what can I do for you?" "Doc, 45s is bringing in a heart attack victim." "Yes I know. They are due to arrive in a few minutes." "Doc, the patient is Roy." Hearing that the patient was Roy, Morton quickly turned into the rigid doctor he always was and everything was total business. "I'm on it Johnny. Has JoAnne been notified?" "No. But I'll get a hold of her and see she gets to the hospital. I'll see you in the ER in a few Doc," he said before hanging up the phone. Johnny took a deep breath and grabbed his cane. Almost too quickly he stood and proceeded to move. His knee and hip didn't immediately hold his weight, which reminded him to be careful. Leaving his office, Johnny headed for the elevator to go down the 7 floors to the ER. He was worried about his friend and wanted to find out Roy's condition before he called JoAnne and Jenny. Like the day he hurried to visit Jenny in her room, the day after she was mugged, the elevator seemed to take its sweet time, stopping at every floor before it stopped at the ER. Johnny's was sick with worry, by the time the elevator doors opened. He was relieved to see Dixie waiting for him when he stepped off. "Have you heard anything?" Johnny asked. "All I know is Roy is stabilized. Doctor Morton talked to Stash in the ambulance. They should be pulling in just about now," she answered. "Then lets go," Johnny replied. Over the past eight years he became rather good supporting his weight and using his cane while swiftly walking when he had too. Dixie knew he was a man on a mission. She had a difficult time keeping pace with him. Johnny looked out the doors of the ER. Nothing. No sign of an ambulance. Forgetting his injury, he began to pace. He hated this, waiting. He needed to know about Roy's condition. He was worried about his friend. He began to chastise himself for not realizing Roy was actually sick the day before. 'Heck, I'm still a paramedic. I've been on enough heart attack responses; I should have known he wasn't okay yesterday. I should have urged him, no I should have insisted and brought him to Rampart myself,' he thought. "Dammit," he said aloud. He went to punch the wall, but Dixie stopped him. Dixie placed her arm around him. "I can see you still worry about him. You have to relax, Johnny. He's gonna be okay." "I hope so. He has a family and we need him," Johnny admitted. Suddenly he heard an ambulance turn the corner and drive toward the ER. Anxiously, he stepped outside and waited until the Med Express Van backed up to the ER entrance. He grabbed the doors before the ambulance attendant got out and walked around. Johnny was surprised to see both Stash and Dooley inside. His worry increased, thinking Roy condition was more serious than Butch said, especially if he needed to be escorted by two paramedics. Instantly he grabbed the pull strap on the gurney and began to drag it out. With the attendants assisting him, the gurney holding his friend, was wheeled into the hospital. Johnny kept in step with the stretcher. Dixie guided them into treatment room 4, which was already set up to receive Roy.  While walking with the stretcher, Johnny noticed that Roy's eyes were closed.  Johnny shuddered seeing how pale Roy looked. Johnny stepped back and waited until the attendants and the paramedics moved Roy over to the treatment table. Stash hooked Roy's oxygen into the wall mount oxygen regulator, while Dooley attached the EKG leads into the hospital's monitor. Dixie hung the IV's that snaked into Roy's left arm, onto a pole. Once all of this was complete, Morton ordered a new set of vitals, and a history. Johnny stayed at the back of the room, out of everyone's way.  He didn't know if Roy saw him.  He just wanted to make sure that Roy was stabilized and then he'd call JoAnne and Jennifer. Stash saw Johnny standing at the back of the room.  Upon his exit, he motioned for Johnny to follow him, which he did. "Cap'n, how are you doing?"  Stash asked. Johnny looked at Stash and said with some anger, "how do you think I'm doing.  A guy I've known for over twenty years is in there with a heart problem."  Johnny said pointing to the treatment room. "Cap, he'll be okay.  Of all places one can go sour, a firehouse is a prime choice.  You of all people should know that." Johnny laughed with irony.  "Sure I do.  I remember it all Stash.  I remember it all."  He patted Stash on the back and then walked down to the bank of phones.  He knew Jen was shopping with JoAnne and Kaitlin.  He hoped they went back to his place, which JoAnne often did during Roy's swing shifts.  He dug in his pocket for some coins. "Hey Angel." "Hey ole timer." Jenny said. "Is JoAnne there?  Lemme speak with her, and you stay on the line." Johnny waited until JoAnne picked up the phone. "Hi Johnny." "Jo, Jen.  Roy's here in the hospital.  They think he's had a heart attack."  Johnny heard both women gasp. "They're trying to stabilize him.  I was here when they brought him in." "Johnny, was he on a rescue when this happened?"  JoAnne asked. "Nah.  From what I understand it happened at 45s.  Thank goodness the crew was there.  I stayed in the room with him here, but was asked to leave. I don't think he knew I was there.  He was kinda outta it.  I think you should both come here.  Chief Stanley is gonna tell Chris, so I expect him here any minute." "Okay John.  I'm gonna come to the hospital."  JoAnne said. "I'll come with you Mom."  Jenny replied. "What about Kaitlin?"  JoAnne asked. "I'll just bring her.  If she starts to act up, we can put her in her Daddy's office.  Johnny, we'll be over in 45 minutes." "Okay.  Love you."  Johnny said. "Love you too, ole timer."  Jenny said as she hung up the phone. Johnny ran his hand through his hair.  He was remembering the conversation he and Roy had yesterday, where Roy scolded him for going paramedic on him.  Johnny was lost in thought when he saw Chris and Jeff walk into the hospital.  Chris was visibly shaken. "Johnny?  What happened?  I got a call from Chief Stanley that Dad's here, but that's all he knew." Johnny put his arm around Chris' shoulder and motioned him over to the chairs.  "Chris, I gotta sit down."  The three men sat down on the hard plastic chairs. "I got a call from Butch at 45s.  Your father collapsed at the station.  Stash and Dooley were there, so Roy had immediate care.  They suspect it's his heart."  John looked down.  He fully knew that if there was something wrong with Roy's heart, his career as an active member of LAFD was over and Roy would have to go on disability.  "I got through to your mom.  She and Jen are on their way over here." Chris balanced his head on his arms that were propped up on his knees.  Jeff wanted to say something but saw Johnny shake his head. In a soft voice Johnny continued, "Morton's with him now and I suspect, Bailor, the cardiologist will be called in."  Changing his timbre Johnny asked, "did Roy ever complain about pains to you, Chris?" Johnny knew that over the past two and a half years, he and Roy weren't as close as they once were.  "Nah, Cap.  He never complained to me if he wasn't feeling well.  He knew I'd take out my stuff and practice on him."  Chris said with a slight laugh.  "I know I never met Dad's father, but  Mom once told me that he died young and suggested that it was his heart.  Man, I never thought about that 'til now."  Chris said as he held his head with his hands. Jeff spoke up.  "Come on you guys.  Worrying about this is not gonna do anyone any good.  When Morton knows something, he'll be right here." "I guess you're right," is all that Chris said, as he stood up.  "I gotta walk around."  And that's what Chris did.  He walked around the emergency ward.  Johnny and Jeff made small talk.  Johnny was asking Jeff about some new rescues equipment he and Chris were testing.  Out of the corner of his eye he saw JoAnne, Jennifer and a sleeping Kaitlin in her stroller, come into the hospital.  He got up to greet them. "Any news?" A worried JoAnne asked. Johnny just shook his head no.  Chris saw his family arrive and walked over to them.  He hugged his sister and then embraced his mother.  Johnny saw this embrace and it brought back memories of a young Chris DeSoto. "Johnny?  How are you taking this?"  Jen asked.  Johnny stood up and looked at his bride of two years and then looked down at his daughter, asleep in her carriage.  She was holding one of her Pooh bears. "I can't tell you how many cardiac cases I've seen over the years.  But when it hits this close to home, it hurts.  It hurts real bad."  He beckoned for Jenny to join him and he hugged her and leaned his head on hers.  Jenny started to cry softly into her husband's chest. Johnny started to stiffen.  "Jen, I gotta sit down.  My leg's been giving me problems the last coupla a days."  Jenny looked at her husband with concern.  The accident that ended Johnny's active career did far more damage than he told anyone.  Johnny was a self- sufficient person and didn't want to depend on anyone.  Only after Johnny married Jennifer did he confide in her how serious his injury was and how he lived with the pain and weakness on a daily basis.  There were some days, like today, that his leg could not stand the abuse of his day-to-day life. Jeff decided to give the DeSotos and Gages some private time. He walked off to the cafeteria to get some coffee for everyone. He wasn't sure how long they would be waiting and he wanted to do something to make things easier on the family.  Jeff knew he didn't have much time to stick around the hospital either. He would soon have to get the squad back to 51s and make it available. By which time Chris's replacement would be waiting for him. Captain Lopez told Chris not to worry about working the remainder of the shift as the two paramedics walked out of the kitchen toward the squad. Jeff knew Chris was more worked up than he showed, when he asked him to drive them to Rampart. By the time Jeff returned from getting coffee, he found Chief Stanley in the waiting room with the others. "I'm sorry Chief, I didn't know you were gonna be here or I would have got you some coffee too." "That's okay, Jeff. My body doesn't need any more coffee today, anyway." Hank answered politely. Jeff handed the cups of black liquid out to everyone. Then passed the sugar and cream to those who wanted it. "Has Morton been out here yet," he asked. Chris shook his head, "No," he said.  "Dr. Bailor just came down from cardiology a few minutes ago. Once he's checked Dad out, we should know something." Jeff nodded his understanding. "Listen, Chris, I hate to do this, but I have to get back to the station," he said. He then looked at the others, "Mrs. DeSoto, Mrs. Gage. If you need anything, anything at all, call me, okay?" "Thanks, Jeff," Jenny answered. Jeff nodded and then turned to leave. "Wait up Jeff," Chris said. . He then looked at the others, "I'll be back in a second. I'm gonna walk Jeff out to the squad." JoAnne nodded as did, Jenny and Johnny. Outside the hospital, Chris awkwardly looked at his best friend. "Thanks Jeff for driving me over here." "Anytime, pal and if you need anything just call, day or night. Understand." "I will. And thanks," Chris replied. His emotions were beginning to betray him. He didn't want to shed any tears in front of his friend, so Chris made a quick exit and jogged back inside the hospital to be with his family. Jeff hopped into the squad. Before starting the engine, he whispered, "Please be okay, Captain DeSoto. Chris still needs his Dad." *** It seemed forever that the Gage and DeSoto clan were waiting.  Hank and Johnny were talking business.  JoAnne was standing by the window looking out.  Jenny and Chris were sitting next to one another. Kaitlin started to stir in her carriage.  She looked up and saw her extended family around her, but she didn't see her Poppie.  She furrowed her brows.  "Momma, where's Poppie?" Hearing her little voice ask that question brought everyone to attention.  Johnny excused himself from Hank and walked over to his daughter.  He sat down on a chair and brought her stroller to him.  She squirmed, knowing that her Daddy was going to take her out of the stroller. "Do you have to go to the potty, young lady?"  Johnny asked. Kaitlin shook her head no. "Are you sure?"  Johnny asked again. "I sure!  I see Chris and Gramma, but no Poppie.  Where's Poppie?" Johnny looked at Jen before answering his daughter.  They agreed a long time ago not to sugar coat things to their daughter.  They certainly couldn't speak to her as an adult, but they could simplify things so she could understand. "Kaitlin, Roy, Poppie isn't feeling well, so we brought him here to the hospital so they can check him out." Kaitlin listened to her Dad and shook her head.  "Is Nurse Dixie here?"  She take good care of Poppie." Shifting Kaitlin's weight Johnny answered, "yes, honey, Nurse Dixie is with Poppie." With a grin on her face she said, "good!" The door to the examination room opened and Dr.'s Bailor and Morton walked out.  Everyone stood up to greet the doctors. "Roy is stabilized now," Morton said, looking at JoAnne.  "We're running tests, but we believe he had a heart attack.  He keeps throwing PVCs, but we've got that under control.  He's in some pain and is having a bit of difficulty breathing."  Morton looked at Bailor to continue. He looked at JoAnne.   "Mrs. DeSoto.  We're going to do a procedure called an Coronary Arteriogram. We will inject a dye into his heart and take X-rays of the blood flow through the area being evaluated. This way we'll be able to see how much damage was done.  Based on that, we'll know what our next step is." "And that next step is…..?" JoAnne asked. Taking a deep breath, Bailor continued, "Either angioplasty or bypass surgery.  Your husband is in good shape.  He has to be for his job.  He's just young to have this happen.  Is there any family history of heart disease?" JoAnne nodded her head yes.  "Roy's father died when he was young.  His mother told him it was his heart."  JoAnne's eyes filled with tears.  Chris walked over to his mother to hold her. Morton spoke up.  "Well, the technology is a hell of a lot better now than it was twenty years ago."  Kaitlin started to fuss in her Daddy's arms. "I wanna see Poppie!" Johnny whispered something in Kaitlin's ear and she smiled.  He gave Kaitlin to Hank Stanley. "Come on young lady.  I need you to help me pick out something to eat."  Her eyes lit up.  Since he was too tall to hold her hand, he held her in his arms as he walked to the cafeteria. "When are you going to start the tests?"  Jenny asked. "We'd like to start them within a the hour.  We'll get the results within two hours after the procedure is complete.  Based on that, we'll figure out what to do next." "Can I see him before you start the test?"  JoAnne asked. Morton nodded, "of course you can.  He's groggy and I don't know if he'll acknowledge you, but you can go in."  Looking at the rest of the family.  "You all can accompany him up to CCU."  Morton knew each of them had a medical background, so he couldn't hide anything from any of them. "JoAnne, come with me."  Morton escorted JoAnne to Roy's room.  Dr. Bailor left the group to begin preparations for the Coronary Arteriogram. Jenny walked to Johnny and hugged him.  Chris looked at John and saw the concern etched in his face.  Seconds later they heard Kaitlin's giggles. Looking up they saw Hank and Kaitlin walking back toward them. "Momma, look what Chief got me!"  She had a new, little Pooh bear, in her arms. "Hank, you didn't have to do that."  Johnny said. "You know you're right!  I didn't, but I did and I have more stripes on my uniform than you, so there's nothing you can do about it!" Changing his tone, Hank continued, "I've got to get back to headquarters.  Call me when you hear something.  Chris, don't worry about your schedule.  We'll get someone to cover for you at 51s." "Thanks, Chief."  Chris said. Johnny extended his arm and shook Hank's hand. "Thanks for everything.  I gotta find someone to take my class." "I'll take care of that for you John." Johnny smiled and walked Hank out to his car. Kaitlin sat on one of the hard chairs playing with her bear while Chris and Jenny talked. A short time later, JoAnne returned to be with her family. "Hi Gramma!  Is Poppie feeling better?" JoAnne, looking so tired, sat down next to Kaitlin.  She put her hand on her granddaughter's head.  "No, honey, Poppie is not feeling well.  But I told him you were here and he smiled." This made Kaitlin happy. "When can I see Poppie?" she asked looking up with her big bright blue eyes. JoAnne smiled. "Later sweetie. Poppie needs to rest for now." Kaitlin bright face clouded over when she heard this. She pulled her new Pooh Bear into her arms and tightly squeezed him. When Johnny returned, worry filled his mind when he saw how unhappy his daughter was. He too was unhappy, but he knew he had to be strong for everyone. Roy would expect him to be. Besides with Roy ill and out of commission, Johnny felt it was his duty to stand in and take care of the family and do anything that would normally need Roy's attention. He walked over to his daughter. Sitting down beside his Kitty Kate, Johnny picked her up, placed her on his lap and held her tight. He kissed the top of her head and then whispered something into her ear. Whatever it was, the others never heard, nor did they ask because Kaitlin began to smile again. Johnny looked up at the others. "How about we pick something up to eat and then we can head to my office and wait there. It's a bit more comfortable and will give us more privacy." "I think Johnny is right," Jenny answered. "This way Kaitlin can make use of the space to play." JoAnne and Chris both agreed. Before leaving the ER, Johnny spoke to Dixie and told her of their plans. The moment Kaitlin walked into her Daddy's office she immediately ran for the toy box he kept in a closet. With Chris's help, she pulled the box out into the room. It was filled with an assortment of Pooh toys, everything from Pooh building blocks to some Pooh storybooks. Kaitlin parked herself beside the box and began to empty the contents onto the floor, arranging them as if she was inventorying the box. Chris chuckled as he watched his little niece. He remembered how his sister would do the same thing with her own toys when she was young like Kaitlin. In fact, Chris remembered every time Johnny came to visit, Jenny would escort him to her room and get him to help her with her Barbie dolls. "What's so funny, Chris," JoAnne asked. "Remembering," he said pointing at Kaitlin. Johnny and JoAnne both looked at the little girl and smiled. They understood exactly what Chris meant. Jenny just shook her head and frowned. She too remembered. "I don't happen to think it was all that funny." "I guess it depends on how you look at it, sis," Chris replied still chuckling. Jenny sighed and took a seat on the sofa next to her husband. It was a piece of furniture Johnny ordered when he took on the position of Chief Paramedic Instructor. He told everyone it was so he could have his office just like the infamous Dr. Brackett, but Jenny knew it was more so he could be comfortable and have a way to support his leg and hip while he was scoring tests and doing other paper work. "Do you want something to eat?" Jenny asked her husband. Johnny shook his head. "No. Not now. Maybe later, okay." Jenny nodded. She knew Johnny was very upset. Over the past two and half years she came to know his moods. Even though the relationship between Johnny and her father was still a bit strained, she knew Johnny's feelings ran deep and he never once stopped caring about her Dad. Inwardly, she figured her Dad felt much the same way, but was too proud to admit it. ***** The next few hours seemed to drag by as if time was standing still. No one had much of an appetite nor did any of them feel much like talking.  About twenty minutes into the second hour of waiting, Kaitlin fell asleep in her Daddy's arms. Chris gently picked her up and laid her into her stroller, giving Johnny a bit of a break from the dead weight a sleeping child always seemed to add to a person's arms. Once Kaitlin was settled, Johnny stood and excused himself to make use of the bathroom. Once he was out of the office, JoAnne motioned for Chris to go too. "Chris. Go with him, please. He needs someone to lean on even if he won't admit it." Chris nodded and jogged out of the office. By the time Johnny made it to the men's room on the 7th floor, Chris slid in beside him. Johnny looked at his best friend's son with a questioning eye. "I had to go too," Chris said and shrugged his shoulders. "It's been a long day and lots of runs. My latrine breaks are limited." Johnny chuckled. He knew exactly what Chris was talking about. When he worked out of 51 as a paramedic, there were times he thought his bladder was gonna burst before he would get to a latrine to relieve himself. "I know what you mean," he replied. The two men stood at the sink washing their hands. Johnny looked at Chris by glancing into the mirror. "Your Dad is gonna be okay, Chris," he said. Chris nodded. "I hope so," he replied. "There are still a lot of things I want him to teach me." "Chris," Johnny began. "I know you've had enough training to know what's happening with your Dad and I know you know the regulations with the department about being in top physical form." Again Chris nodded. He turned off the water and grabbed some paper towel. As he dried his hands, he glanced up and looked Johnny in the eyes. "His active career is over." "Yes. It is. You and I both know how important Roy's career has always been to him. He's always given it a hundred percent. And at the same time his family was of the utmost importance to him." "I know and its gonna be difficult for him." Johnny nodded. "Just like it was for me, remember." "Boy I remember. You had to be the most stubborn man I ever met and you pushed everyone away. Everyone that cared, including Dad." "It was hard Chris. Not being able to work at the job I loved." "You think Dad will be the same way?" "More than likely. And if I can come around, so can your Dad. With time." Chris nodded. "How about we get back before the ladies think we flushed ourselves down the toilet and come looking for us?" Johnny joked. Chris laughed. "Jenny's a bit over protective of you, isn't she?" This time Johnny smiled and nodded. "Yes, Chris. Your sister is the best thing that ever happened to me, and Kaitlin is the second. I lived alone for a long time and never thought I'd find a woman who could or would put up with me. Then after the accident, I figured I'd be alone for the rest of my life. Then Jenny finished nursing school and came home. She made me realize, made me see the love I held deep in my heart for her and showed me the love she held for me. I can't imagine life without her or Kaitlin now." "I understand, how you feel and I'm sure Dad does too." "I don't know about that, Chris." "No Johnny. It's true. I'm sure Dad does. I know your relationship with Dad was strained in an enormous way, but once Kaitlin came into this world and he saw how much you cared for both Jenny and the baby, well, he's come around some. I know there is still a bit of tension there, but he still cares. After all it was you he asked Stash to call." Johnny nodded then looked at his watch. "I think I'll give Dix a call. We've been waiting for almost three hours now," he said. Johnny walked over to his desk. Just as he was about to pick up the phone, it rang.  Nervously he pickup the receiver and held it to his ear. "John Gage," he said. "Johnny. It's Dixie. They just finished up with the Coronary Arteriogram. Roy was moved into CCU. Dr.'s Morton and Bailor are there and they would like to see you all there now." "Thanks Dixie," Johnny said before replacing the receiver. Taking a deep breath, he looked at his family. "The procedure is complete. The Docs want to see us straightaway down in CCU." JoAnne placed her hand over her mouth and gasped. "Mom. It's okay. CCU isn't a bad place. In fact it can be a good place. Dad will have one on one nursing care there."  Jenny said, putting her arm on her mother's back. "Jenny's right, Mom. Let's go see what the Docs discovered and see what they want to do."  Chris joined Jenny and put his arm on around his mother to offer emotional and physical support. The four adults and a sleeping little Kaitlin being pushed in her stroller, made their way down two floors to the CCU. They found Dr.'s Morton and Bailor standing just outside the massive room where the beds were separated by curtains between the them. In the center of the room was a circular Nurses Station where the tending nurses could keep a close eye on all patients at all times. The room was staffed with one nurse per patient and an additional nurse, who remained stationed at the desk at all times. "Doc," Johnny said as the group approached. "Johnny. JoAnne." Morton greeted. He nodded to Chris and Jenny who stood back to listen. "We finished with the arteriogram and checked the results closely. We discovered that there is a formation of a build up of cholesterol plaque located on the inner wall of Roy's coronary artery." "Exactly what does that mean Doctor?" JoAnne asked. This time Bailor spoke up. "Cholesterol is a fatty chemical which is part of the outer lining of cells in the body. Cholesterol plaque is the formation of a hard, thick substance within the artery walls which is caused by deposits of cholesterol in the artery walls; a process that begins in the late teens. Over time, the accumulation of cholesterol plaque causes thickening of the artery walls and narrowing of the arteries; this process is called arteriosclerosis. The plaque accumulation can be accelerated by smoking, diabetes, which we know is not the case with Roy. We ran a cholesterol check on him and when the test came back it showed he had an elevated cholesterol count, far outside the range of an acceptable level. His blood pressure is high which may be from the amount of stress he has been under. I believe we can contribute his heart attack on a combination of these two things. Ultimately, the arteriosclerosis causes significant narrowing of the coronary arteries. During exercise or excitement, the narrowed coronary arteries cannot increase the blood supply to meet the increased oxygen demand of the heart muscle. This is why Roy suffered this heart attack. I know this may not sound great, but this may have been a good thing to happen. The blockage isn't critical yet and can be repaired successfully. Then with a proper diet and exercise, Roy can lead a healthy life." "What are the options? You mentioned before about two different surgeries." JoAnne asked. "Yes. One thing we could do is Angioplasty. The other is a Coronary Artery Bypass Graft. I prefer to do the later. I've had more success with this procedure and there is less of a chance of the patient returning for additional surgeries." "What does that entail, Doctor?" JoAnne asked suddenly not liking the conversation. She began to lean on Johnny who remained quiet the entire time. "During the surgery, we create new routes around narrowed and blocked arteries permitting increased blood flow to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscles. We will use a vein from either his leg or an inner chest wall artery. Like I mentioned with a proper diet and a good exercise program, your husband should lead a relatively normal life and do most of the things he's always enjoyed." "When will you do this surgery?" "As soon as possible. I would like to schedule him for first thing in the morning, 6am." Suddenly JoAnne looked at Johnny and sighed. With all the turmoil over Roy, she forgot that tomorrow was his birthday. "Johnny," JoAnne started. "JoAnne. Roy needs this. I want it to happen as quickly as possible."  Johnny said with authority. JoAnne nodded and gave her okay to the Doctor's. "Good. Mrs. DeSoto. A nurse will give you consent forms to sign and then you all might consider going home for the night to get some rest." Bailor stated before leaving the group. "Dr. Bailor is right JoAnne. You all need to get some rest. Where will you go? Home or to the Gages?" "They will come home with me, Doc. You can reach us at my home," Johnny asserted. He was taking his role as head of the family serious and taking charge. "Okay then. You all can see Roy for a few minutes and then I want you all to leave, to get some rest." "Thanks, Doc," Johnny answered. The heart monitor blipped away inside Roy's cubical. Over that, the sound of oxygen was heard, being administered. Both Jenny and Chris said a quick hello and told their Dad that they would see him in the morning. They stepped back and walked out of the unit so JoAnne and Johnny could have a couple minutes. JoAnne relayed her love to her husband and told him not to worry and that Johnny and Chris were taking care of everything.  She kissed her husband on the head and squeezed his hand.  After she stepped back, Johnny stepped forward. "Hey," he said. "Hey, yourself." "Roy. I don't want you to worry about your family. I'll take good care of them until you're back on your feet again." Roy nodded. "They told me I needed surgery?" "Yes. And when it's over and you'll be back on your feet. You'll feel like your old self again. In fact maybe better than your old self." "Thanks, Junior." "Get some sleep, Pally. Tomorrow is going to be a long day." Roy nodded and closed his eyes. Johnny patted his best friend shoulder and then left, escorting his family to his home.  Johnny drove Jenny and Kaitlin in the Rover and Chris drove JoAnne in her car out to the ranch. *** The weary clan walked into the house.  Jenny brought the sleeping Kaitlin upstairs.  Johnny limped upstairs to the guestroom and turned on the light. "Well JoAnne, I guess you'll stay in here.  Chris, we've got a foldaway in the den, downstairs.  Will that be okay?"  Chris nodded his head.  "I'll get you some sweats you can wear, Chris.  Jo?  I bet Jenny has something you can wear." Johnny walked into Kaitlin's room and watched Jenny tuck his daughter in.  He went over to her bed and sat down on the corner.  He moved some of her Pooh toys around.  He bent over and kissed his daughter good night.  "Good night Kitty Kate." He reached for his cane to get up and had trouble.  If Jenny weren't in the room to help him he would not have been able to get up. "Thanks, Angel." "You must be tired, Johnny.  Why don't you take a bath with some Epsom salts?  I'll get Mom and Chris comfortable."  She went to her husband and took his hand.  He turned the nightlight on and the two left their daughter's room. JoAnne was getting her bed ready.  "Mom, I'll get you something to sleep in." "Jen, I think I left some stuff here last time." "Oh, that's right.  I forgot." "I'll be okay."  JoAnne said.  She motioned for Jenny to come over to her and the two women embraced. "Mom, I don't know how you do this.  How can you be so stoic?" "Jen, its just part of being a firemen's wife.  When your father decided to be a fireman, I made up my mind to accept it.  I love him and I'll do anything to make him happy.  I will not let him see my fear because it will only upset him and distract him.  Still…" JoAnne trailed off. "I know Mom, we don't have to like it.  Look at the two of us.  All the men we love have such a dangerous job." Johnny poked his head into the guestroom.  "Hope I'm not interrupting.  Jo, if we get a call, I'll let you know.  If not, I'll see ya in the morning." "Good night Johnny."  JoAnne said as Johnny left the room.  "Jen, is everything okay with Johnny?" "What do you mean Mom?" "He seems a bit more, I don't know, quiet." "Mom, he's just worried."  Jennifer patted her mother's arm and smiled.  She didn't want to reveal that Johnny was having some medical problems of his own.  "I'll see you in the morning.  Don't be surprised if Kaitlin comes in here in the morning to wake you up." Jennifer left her Mom's room and went downstairs.  She heard the bath running in her bedroom and was glad Johnny listened to her. She saw Chris in the kitchen cleaning up the broken plate and picking up the cookie. "Chris, let me do that." "That's okay, munchkin.  I'm used to either kitchen or latrine duty."  He laughed. Jenny went to the den and opened up the sofa bed.  She changed the linen and put a put a blanket on the bed.  Chris met her in the den. "Chris, you know your way around here, so if there's anything you can't find, let me know.  I put some sweats on the bed.  I'm sure some of Johnny's stuff will fit you.  There are extra toothbrushes under the sink cabinet. "Sis, I'll be okay."  He went over to his sister and gave her a big hug.  He kissed the top of her head.  "Dad will be okay too."  Jenny looked up at her brother and smiled. "Good night hose jockey." "That's paramedic hose jockey to you!" Jenny went back upstairs and checked in on her daughter.  She then went to her bedroom and saw her freshly bathed husband wearing a t-shirt and shorts.  He was sitting on his favorite chair with his left leg stretched out.  Jenny went over to him and messed up his hair. "Hey!  It took me two minutes to fix my hair!" "Well ole timer, you'll just have to do it again." Johnny got up and walked over to his wife and tackled her on their bed.  The two started to giggle.  Then Johnny started to kiss Jennifer.  His desire became more passionate. "Johnny, I can't.  My mother is in the next room!" "You really know how to turn a guy off!"  Jenny got out from the bed and went into the bathroom.  Johnny got into his bed and picked up a book. After five minutes, Jenny emerged wearing an oversized t-shirt. "I'm tired, John.  I'm going to go to sleep."  She got under the blankets and kissed Johnny.  "Good night." "Night."  Johnny continued to read his book. *** Jenny woke up at 2:00am, stretching out she found her bed was missing her husband.  She got up and went downstairs and saw Johnny sitting on their oversized couch in the darkened living room.  She walked down to him. "Hi," she said. "Hi," Johnny responded. "What's wrong, Johnny?"  She sat down next to him and cuddled into his strong arms. "I think I'm gonna have to have that operation, Jen.  My leg and hip are getting worse.  I don't wanna start taking those pain pills.  Once ya start, it's hard to stop." "I know, Johnny.  Do you know when you want to have the surgery?" Taking a deep breath Johnny replied, "well I was planning to do it soon, but with what happened to your Dad, I just don't know.  I wanna wait and make sure he's okay.  I don't wanna put this family through any more than they have to.  We need to get Roy back to his old self.  You and I both know your Dad's gonna go on disability.  Hopefully, when he's well, the department will find a job for him, but I don't know.  Maybe I can convince headquarters to hire another instructor.  But you know your Dad isn't certified any longer.  What is it now seven years?  He'd have to study all over again.  I just don't know if Roy will have it in him." Johnny shifted his weight and groaned. "Are you okay?" "Yeah.  It's just everything from today catching up with me." "If you decided to have the surgery, you shouldn't put it off.  I hate to see you suffering, Johnny."  She reached over and kissed him. "I know, Angel.  Believe me, I don't like it either.  But once I put in for the surgery, I'm gonna be laid up for awhile.  An' that's not gonna be pretty.  You'll have your hands full with Kaitlin, as I won't be able to drive or do anything.  And if your father needs help..."  Johnny didn't finish. "Johnny, I want you to schedule the surgery.  You won't do anyone of us any good if you are having increasing difficulty walking.  We'll all just pick up the slack. Even though the room was dark, Johnny looked into Jennifer's eyes.  "How was I so lucky to find you, Angel?"  He kissed her.  She responded to his kiss with passion.  She started to rub his chest. "Umm, that feels good, Angel." Jennifer took his hand.  "Let's go upstairs.  We have some unfinished business."  Johnny stood up and Jenny pinched his rear end. "But what about..." Jenny didn't let Johnny say the next word. "Don't ruin the mood."  With his cane and Jenny's help, Johnny walked upstairs to their bedroom.  When their bedroom door closed, Chris emerged from the bathroom.  He was in there the entire time and overheard their conversation.  He was distressed to find out that Johnny was not doing well physically so many years after his injury.  He was dismayed that Jenny didn't tell him how bad Johnny was feeling.  Chris wished that he had half the emotional strength that Johnny just displayed.  In his heart, he knew he had to do something for both his father and his father's best friend. **** At the same time the DeSotos and Gages were settling in, Morton stood at the foot of Roy's bed checking his patient's chart. Without warning he heard Roy speak. "Hi, Doc," Roy croaked out with a sleepy voice. "You should be asleep, Roy. You need your rest. You have a big day ahead of you." Morton asserted. "You should be getting some sleep too, Doc." Roy said earnestly. "I will as soon as I finish checking you over." Morton replied sternly. He walked around to the side of Roy's bed. Placing his stethoscope on Roy's chest, Morton listened to the heart as it beat. "Doc?" Roy said. "Shhhhh. I'm trying to listen to your heart." Roy waited until Morton finished and then began to write in the chart. "Doc?" "Yeah. What is it Roy?" "What's the date?" "Why? Do you have some place you need to be," Morton said jokingly. "No. Not really. I just need to know what the date is?" "It's August 28th." "Doc. I need you to postpone the surgery." "Roy. You need this surgery right away. The team will be ready to go at 6 am sharp." "I know, but not today. Not August 28th. "You're gonna have to explain it to me. JoAnne has signed the paperwork and okayed the surgery. You don't need to be afraid. Dr. Bailor has performed…" "I'm not afraid, Doc. Sort of. I…" "Roy you'll need to give me a good reason to postpone the procedure." "August 28th is Johnny's birthday. If anything, if something goes wrong and I don't make it. I don't want Johnny to have to remember, for the remainder of his life, that his birthday was the day his friend died." "I see. Roy, Johnny never said anything. In fact he encouraged us to perform the surgery as soon as possible." Roy sort of chuckled. "Forever my friend." "What's that, Roy?" "Johnny. He still thinks of everyone but himself." "If you ask me, Roy, I think Johnny was thinking of himself, some. He cares about you and your family a great deal. He wants what's best for you so that you will be able to return home to your family soon. If I recall, he is part of your family." Morton affirmed. "Yeah. He is. Doc, please, for me and for him, postpone the surgery until after midnight tonight." "I'll see what I can do Roy. You have my word. Now how about you get some sleep?" "Doc, one more thing." "What?" "Don't tell Johnny why. Please." "Fine Roy. Get some sleep." Morton replied. He walked over to the nurse's station and ordered a mild sedative to be given to Roy to help him sleep for what remained of the night. Morton had a feeling without the drug, Roy would try to remain awake and he would do nothing but worry. CONTINUE