I have been down to the river and back. One week ago, on Veterans Day, I had a heart attack while working at my hunting camp. There wasn’t much question about what was happening. I drove myself home and my wife and son called an ambulance.

After arriving at Natchez Regional Hospital, the competent staff in the emergency room went to work. I am told that two minutes later CPR had to be performed to get my heart going. I cannot say enough about the ability of the ER at Natchez Regional or of the medics with Metro ambulance.

After being stabilized I was taken to St. Dominic’s Hospital in Jackson and was treated in the intensive care unit for four days. During this time two procedures placing three stints in my heart on Tuesday and Wednesday. On Thursday I was allowed to come home. On doctors’ advice, I will not go to the courthouse Thanksgiving week, I will return on Monday, Nov. 26.

To the 600-plus callers and prayer vigil from seven area churches, I am eternally grateful. To my wife of 54 years, Ella, four children and 11 grandchildren, who stuck by me the whole time in Jackson, I love you all.

This near death experience has given me a new look at life. I have been lucky and know it.

I will be starting a new term as tax assessor in January 2008 and I appreciate the opportunity. I will continue to serve as long as you, the voting public, sees fit to elect me.

Come by and see me when you come to the courthouse. I love you all.

Reynolds Atkins is the tax assessor for Adams County.