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CBy Sally Kalosheryl Jones never would havedreamed her morning would beanything more than the norm as she got her day going and thinking of the up-and-coming holiday, Thanksgiving, that was fast approaching. She remembered she needed to bring in some of her silverware that was stored in her outdoor kitchen.While walking on a sidewalk behind her house, Cheryl tripped on a raised area, lost her balance, and fell face-first into a 500-pound metal table and chairs. The momentum of the fall caused her head to jerk violently, mimicking whiplash from a car accident. A metal chair’s corner cut her lip and head, and she fell hard onto the cement floor. Unable to move the left side of her body, Cheryl found herself immobilized— she couldn’t roll over, sit up, or even control her hands.Cheryl’s husband, Marvin, was inside cleaning up after breakfast. Fearing he might leave for work without noticing her outside, she tried yelling for help but couldn’t project her voice. Then, she remembered her Apple Watch. Using voice commands, she called Marvin, who quickly came to her rescue.Marvin came outside and was shocked to see her covered in blood. Within minutes, paramedics arrived. Paramedic Mike Davis and his team carefully transported Cheryl to the hospital, ensuring she wasas comfortable as possible during the ride. Mike even returned later that day to check on her progress—a gesture Cheryl deeply appreciated.Cheryl was admitted to a local hospital, where she received exceptional care. The trauma surgeon, Dr. Trexler, kept her informed and involved in decisions about her treatment. His partner, Dr. West, continued the high standard of care during her five-day stay in the ICU. Cheryl also praised the kindness and professionalism of the nurses and technicians who attended to her.The accident caused a spinal cord injury, leading to a condition known as “Burning Hand Syndrome.” The nerves in Cheryl’s hands were under intense pressure, causing them to burn and tingle with excruciating pain. She lost all strength in her hands and couldn’t even hold her phone. Over time, her hands have improved, though they still tingle and ache occasionally. Her other wounds, including cuts to her lip and head, have fully healed, and neck discomfort is now minimal.Cheryl stresses the importance of having a smartwatch that allows you to call for help in emergencies. Since her accident, several friends have bought smartwatches or started using them again. She also encourages people to practice properwalking techniques—lifting the knees with a marching motion to strengthen the thighs and avoid tripping, especially as they age.Before the accident, Cheryl often prioritized others over herself, leaving her drained and resentful not to others but at herself. The experience taught her the value of saying no and setting boundaries. Now, she only commits to activities and responsibilities that truly resonate with her, ensuring she preserves her energy and well- being.As a coach who helps others find fulfillment, Cheryl realized her own life was out of balance. The accident served as a wake-up call, prompting her to redirect attention to herself and strive for a healthier balance between her needs and her commitments.Cheryl’s journey serves as a reminder that sometimes life’s challenges can lead to profound growth and transformation.Life-Changing Accident and Lessons LearnedParamedic Mike Davis & Cheryl Jones.Human Trafficking UpdateBy Lou Duggan“ E very single day nine people are reported missing in San Antonio,” states the Dec.15, 2024, San Antonio Report. “According to police records, at least 2,770 people have been reported missing in the city since January. Another 583 people were reported missing in Bexar County over that same time period. In 2024, San Antonio was among the top 10 cities in the U.S. for unresolved missing persons cases, along with Houston and Dallas, according to a report by the National Missing andUnidentified Persons System.”In October, a significant humantrafficking operation was dismantled in Houston. The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), along with local and federal law enforcement agencies, conducted a series of raids on nine area nightclubs suspected of human trafficking. These operations, part of “Operation Bad Traffic,” resulted in the rescue of 84 potential victims, including minors. Four suspects were arrested on charges related to human trafficking and prostitution. The investigation revealed deplorable conditions within these establishments, with hidden rooms behind the bars and clubs where victims were subjected to horrific treatment and sexual abuse.Efforts to combat human trafficking in Texas are indeed making a difference, but the crime remains a significant challenge. While there have been notable successes in arrests and victim rescues, human trafficking continues to be a prevalent issue.The Texas Human Trafficking Prevention Coordinating Council and Task Force, along with various law enforcement agencies, are continuously working to address this problem.Illegal immigration and human trafficking are closely connected. Traffickers often exploit the vulnerabilities of migrants, promising them safe passage or employment, only to subject them to forced labor or sexual exploitation. Migrants, especially those without legal status, are at higher risk because they fear deportation and may not seek help.There are approximately 1.6 million undocumented people living in Texas. The state has one of the largest undocumented populations in the U.S. — second to California — making up about 15% of the state’s immigration population. This undocumented population represents roughly 8% of the state’s workforce, according to a Pew Research Center report. This remains a complex issue that requires ongoing vigilance and collaboration among the public and law enforcement agencies. Increased awareness and training programs have helped, but there is still much work to be done.In the San Antonio area, if you see or suspect human trafficking in progress call 911 or if it is not a life-threatening situation call non-emergency SAPD at (210) 207- 7273. In Comal County anonymous tips about human trafficking can be submitted to Comal County Crime Stoppers: 830-620- 8477 or 1-800-640-8422.8www.stoneoakhighlights.comFebruary 2025