Help from Heaven: True Stories of Rescues, Miracles, and Answered Prayers from a First Responder

by Andrea Jo Rodgers

Do You Believe in Miracles?
 
Experience the heart-pounding drama of real-life emergencies. Veteran EMT and physical therapist Andrea Jo Rodgers shares this all-new collection of accounts from her 30-plus years as a volunteer with her town’s local first aid and emergency squad.  
 
Arrive on the scene with Andrea and encounter…  As you discover these and many more unforgettable stories, you’ll be reminded that miracles do happen, whether it be through the heroic efforts of first responders, the Lord’s divine intervention, or, often, both.   
 

224 pages, Paperback

Published September 1, 2020

About the author

www.facebook.com/AndreaJoRodgers

Reviews

[Cynthia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author, a 30 year volunteer as an EMT worker and a physical therapist in a Trauma Center for 25 years (with a Clinical Doctorate in Physical Therapy), has written a warm-hearted collection of her true life experiences helping and healing people in need. She and her co-volunteers and other medical helpers go beyond the call of duty in order to positively intervene in the health and welfare of others. It highlights humanity at its best and the depths to which people will reach out and change people’s lives with their kindness and caring actions.

This is not a book solely about angel visitations per say, but variations on that theme prevail. As she mentions at the end of the book, “Under the direction of God, angels may answer our prayers, rescue us from danger, provide for our needs, and care for us at the moment of our death. We may be receptive to their presence in our lives and appreciate their role as God’s ministers.”

Synchronicity is at play here. There are stories about people following their instincts in feeling that they have to check on a loved one, or the EMT workers being in the right place at the right time, and these are very much in alignment with God’s protective light leading people to trust their inner guidance. There are also stories where the injured or ill person does not make it through and does pass away. Why does God help one and not the other? That is a question that we may never have answered. That is where faith comes into play – trust that there is a process and meaning behind each story.

The author has a knack of describing the emotions and challenges that each protagonist is experiencing and this brings the reader along for the ride.

I love QUACKING UP (Chapter 6) and the rescue of ducklings who have been swept away into a drainage pipe.

Another favorite is THE HERO (Chapter 17) which relays a story about a man coming to the rescue of a woman who has fallen onto the subway tracks. Could he be an angel disguised as a human? I believe in this phenomenon. Who knows? Wouldn’t that be beautiful?

Some of the time the bible verses at the end of each chapter were a mere distraction for me as they didn’t particularly connect to the story at hand. In the case of THE HERO I felt that the reference elevated the idea of an angel disguised as a human being coming to the aid of someone in trouble.

In THE STROKE (Chapter 18) several stories are told, including how a deceased friend of the author had signaled from beyond the grave, letting her know that he was okay. As the author stated, “…brought me immeasurable comfort and affirmed my belief in the afterlife.” I particularly love visitation references so this put a smile on my face and uplifted my soul.

I would have preferred less detail about medical statistics and the EMT workers’ history and there was an unevenness to the effectiveness of the stories as a whole. But the ones that touched me will remain in my heart and I came away with a sense of gratitude for the hard work and dedication of the author and her colleagues. I appreciate their loving kindness and am happy that I was a witness to the tales told in this book.

The author has also written three other books on this theme - ANGELS ON THE SCENE (2011), AT HEAVEN'S EDGE (2015) and ON HEAVEN'S DOORSTEP (2018).

Thank you Netgalley and Harvest House Publishers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Help from Heaven by Andrea Jo Rogers is a collection of real life emergency stories Ms. Rogers has seen first hand from being an EMT herself. I am always fascinated hearing stories from first responders, and these stories are just as amazing. The author starts each chapter with a scripture and then goes into the story. As I read these stories, I was amazed at just what emergency workers of all kinds actually face on a daily basis. I am also amazed at the miracles that happen during some of the rescues. My heart was truly touched at the heartwarming experiences that showed that god was truly in control.

If this is something you enjoy reading, I highly recommend you pick up this truly amazing read. You will be amazed at the stories you will read. I give this book Five Stars. I hope you will enjoy as much as I did!

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Click here to get your copy!

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Help from Heaven" by Andrea Jo Rodgers is a book that is filled with true stories that fills your heart with joy and really makes you believe that angels are real and helps you realize that there are real heroes in the world today.
Yes, most of these stories ends happily, but some don't have a happy ending, I guess that should be a given because these are true stories.

I like that the author starts each story with a Biblical Scriptural and ends with one and an explanation of how that scriptural reference fits the story.

This is the second book that I have read that shares the author's own experiences and I think these books are a great reminder that God is with us and I believe I will be reading them again and again when I need to be reminded that God is in the big and little things of life.

I think one of my favorite story in this book is the one about the firemen saving the family ducks, this is the reference to the little things in life.

I was given a contemporary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

These are the kind of short tales that become addictive. What kind of predicament is it? Will they get to the hospital in time? Will they make it?

Andrea Jo Rodgers's stories culled from her decades of experience as an EMT are varied and interesting. Stories of accident victims, addicts, elderly patients, and more with a common thread: the intervention of others who have a hand in them receiving the medical attention they need.

Interspersed with Bible verses and very brief reflections, they help the reader to realize the many ways God sends help - through various people, whether family or strangers, and possibly in unseen ways through His angels nudging, directing, and guiding.

This makes for great reading for a wide audience of curious readers open to God's work in our lives.

[Jeanette Fallon · Rating 5 out of 5]

We all experience times when we need help. We pick up the phone and call 911 for assistance.  Each chapter of this book demonstrates the difficult jobs EMS, emergency workers, etc. deal with each and every day.  The patients are at their worse.  The emergency workers are Angels of GOD whom do everything in their power to save us or our loved ones.

This Book was beautifully written.  It takes a special person to do a job like this.  I know the author's Christian beliefs have given her the strength to carry out her job.  And to think that she is volunteering to help others!  

Chapter 16 spoke to me.  My father was in the hospital dying from cancer.  I was a wife with two young children under six. I was also attending college full-time near the hospital my father was in.  I planned to visit my Dad right after my class ended.  I was waiting for the class to start when I had this desperate need to get to the hospital.  I didn't have my car that day so I had no way to get there.  My friend drove me and dropped me off.  I soon found out that my Dad died right when I felt the need to go.  I believe that GOD spoke to me that day.  And I was blessed that I listened.  There was no way anyone could have reached me in that classroom.  But GOD could.

I received this free from Celebrate Lit to review.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 7
Jeanette’s Thoughts, November 7
Texas Book-aholic, November 8
Inklings and notions, November 9
For Him and My Family, November 10
deb’s Book Review, November 11
Locks, Hooks and Books, November 12
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, November 13
Artistic Nobody, November 14 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)
Mary Hake, November 14
Ashley’s Bookshelf, November 15
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 16
Sara Jane Jacobs, November 17
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 18
Splashes of Joy, November 19
Spoken from the Heart, November 20

About the Book

Book:  Help from Heaven
Author: Andrea Jo Rodgers
Genre:  Christian Nonfiction
Release Date:  September 1, 2020

Do You Believe in Miracles?
Experience the heart-pounding drama of real-life emergencies. Veteran EMT and physical therapist Andrea Jo Rodgers shares this all-new collection of accounts from her 30-plus years as a volunteer with her town’s local first aid and emergency squad.
Arrive on the scene with Andrea and encounter…

Lou, a dedicated war veteran who is granted a new tour of duty from God.

A fearful flock of ducklings that slip down a storm drain during a false alarm.

Everett, a resilient older man who goes for an unexpected ride on the hood of an intoxicated driver’s car.

Jenna, a young woman whose dangerous heart condition is both physical and emotional.

Frank, a husband whose nasty fall down a flight of stairs earns him instant angel status from his devoted wife, Doris.

As you discover these and many more unforgettable stories, you’ll be reminded that miracles do happen, whether it be through the heroic efforts of first responders, the Lord’s divine intervention, or, often, both.

About the Author


Andrea Jo Rodgers is the author of award-winning Christian middle grade fiction as well as inspirational adult nonfiction novels. She holds a clinical doctorate in physical therapy and specializes in women’s health, orthopedics, and lymphedema. She has served her community as a volunteer emergency medical technician for over thirty years, responding to more than 8,200 first aid and fire calls. She lives on the east coast with her husband, two children, and their two rescue dogs, a Shih Tzu and a Dachshund.
https://promosimple.com/ps/10357/help...

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inside this book you will find hope, encouragement, sadness, grief, miracles and unconditional love. Each chapter starts with scripture that I really liked. The stories are testimonies to what God is capable of doing. It was inspiring to read how the EMT’s were caring and treated each patient with compassion. I enjoyed reading each story and following along as the patients traveled to the hospital. There are some difficult stories that will make you cry.

I could feel the adrenaline rush each time 911 was dispatched to a scene. I know my heart would be racing not knowing what to expect when arriving upon a scene. I liked that the author shared the good outcomes as well as the sad ones. One of the stories that really touched me was the one about Alzheimer. My mother had it and it was a difficult journey to care for her. It was hard to see how her body and mind slowly failed her. All we could do as she started slipping away was to pray that God would ease her suffering. Each story talks about different illnesses or accidents but in some way we can all relate to them. The family members who stand by helplessly watching while the EMT’s do what they can can be heart wrenching. I appreciate the dedication that EMT’s have and how the author uses her faith as she prepares for each emergency.

“If we listen closely, we may hear the messages that Jesus might be sending us about our own lives as well as the lives of others.”

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Nyla Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Help from Heaven: True Stories of Rescues, Miracles, and Answered Prayers from a First Responder by author Andrea Jo Rodgers is a Christian non-fictional compilation of true stories. These accounts of miracles, rescues, and prayers that were answered are so inspiring. What happened in them is nothing less than miraculous.

The author uses her experience as an EMT and writes about actual events that have happened. It is a heart stirring book, and one that will make readers realize how much first responders actually face. Each story is accompanied with a scripture. It is important to see that God is the One the works miracles. The reflections allow readers to recognize that God guides and direct people here on Earth to help.

The writing style of the author is nice. I was able to follow each chapter and was emotional as I read them. Her passion for the job and patients comes through in her writing. I did not tire of reading these accounts.

If you are expecting stories of heavenly angels, you will be disappointed. This is not that type of book. There was one or two, but that is all. I was encouraged as I read these and filled with hope. If readers take anything away from this book I hope it is how powerful prayer is.

I recommend this compilation of true events. It would be a nice reading group discussion. I rated it 4 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my true words.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book that I have read by this author and I have enjoyed both of them very much. The author has brought her real life experiences with her when she writes. Each story is different and can be read in any order. I used to be a huge rescue 911 junkie - and I love most medical shows, so I enjoyed this book very much. The author has done a great job recounting the stories and interweaving faith elements into them. The author always says a prayer as she goes to 911 calls which I think is awesome. Each chapter opens with a verse. The author tells each story in great detail. You get a full picture to what is going on. I could vividly see what I was reading with her great descriptions. She also adds her own personal reflections into each story. The author has given me a much more respect for our first responders and the things they hear and witness. Well written, heartwarming and will make you smile.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program. All thoughts are my own.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read and enjoyed At Heaven’s Edge so when I received Help from Heaven I knew it was going to be a good book. They remind me a bit of the Chicken Soup for the soul books that were all the rage when I was younger.

As a nurse, I like these stories of how lives are saved and people are given that second chance that we always wish for them to have. To work anywhere in health care you are going to have so many stories of the bad. These stories of the good are what keep you going and buoy your spirits on the days that are extra rough.

I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

True-life stories of people involved in traumatic situations fill this diary of a paramedic’s experiences while on medical calls in a small town. The author links each of the twenty-eight accounts with a portion of Scripture that mentions angels ministering to humans and suggests possible ways angels are at work today, including some that appear miraculous. Most of the emergency encounters turn out well, but hearing some of the harrowing tales get the adrenaline going. Presented from a Christian worldview, the incidents offer encouragement and challenge our faith and trust in God to grow. However, not every tale turns out they way we wish, as we know from our own personal experiences. The variety of occurrences provide interesting scenarios to keep readers engaged, and it feels like you’re riding along in the ambulance as they try to rescue those in need of aid. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Barbara Tsipouras · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this book. I'm a Christian who believes in angels. I don't doubt that angels help us, sometimes save us - but in all the stories I read there were no angels involved (perhaps in one). The angels involved were the first responders, neighbors or friends that "happened" to be at the right time a the right place and do the right thing. Of course there was divine intervention.

The bible quotes are all very good and encouraging, but they don't have anything to do with the corresponding stories.


All this wouldn't really disturb me if the stories were well told. I don't care how many years the other first responders have been in the squad or what their profession is/was. I don't care about the names of the roads or what exactly the dispatcher says, especially not in each and every story.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read previous books from Andrea Jo Rodgers. So, I was excited to read her Help from Heaven: True Stories of Rescues, Miracles, and Answered Prayers from a First Responder. I once again enjoyed the collection of true stories. I thought this was a compelling read. It is truly amazing to read about the power and beauty of prayer. I could not help to be inspired by these stories. I loved it!

I am giving Help from Heaven: True Stories of Rescues, Miracles, and Answered Prayers from a First Responder a very well deserved five plus stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading powerful stories of faith and hope. I know they will be inspired by reading many of them, if not all of them.

I received Help from Heaven: True Stories of Rescues, Miracles, and Answered Prayers from a First Responder from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love these types of stories. Real life experiences that show God's intervention and love. The author does a great job of making you feel the anxiety, adrenaline rush, and all the other emotions that go along with her job as an EMT.

Overall, I thought it was a great book. It shows the goodness in humanity and how God is always watching out for His children. He isn't always overt about it but if you are paying attention, you can see him in everyday life. It is a great reminder of God's power and love. I won't be letting this collection of stories go.

It was a 4/5 for me.

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

My father is a police chaplain and I have many friends who are EMTs, firefighters, and police officers. I have a great respect for their line of work and what they experience on a daily basis. And I truly believe that God is working in their midst. These stories were full of hope, encouragement and reminded me how personal the God we serve is. I loved this book, would read any other books by this author and if you want to be uplifted and encouraged, this is a great book to read.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but was not under any obligation to write a review. All opinions are strictly mine.

[Vnunez-Ms_luv2read · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very nice stories of various cases that EMT personnel have encountered. As I was reading them, all I could think of was if I ever had to experience emergency personnel in any way, I pray they are as compassionate as the EMT’s in this book. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the arc of this book in return for my honest review Receiving the book in this manner had no bearing on this review.

[Ann Readyoff · Rating 5 out of 5]

#HelpFromHeavev#NetGalley
I believe in angels so this book was great. It gave true stories where people were helped in either emotional or physical ways. I have had such a thing in my life. One of my favorite songs is Angels Among Us by Alabama. And I believe this is so. Great book. Hope to see more like this. Thank you Net Galley for letting me read and review this book.

[Morgan Hall · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is blog quality not book quality. It was just ok. Scripture seemed out of place. Thank you to Net Galley for the chance to read this book and post an honest review.

[Lauren B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved loved loved this book!

[Leah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just wanted as exciting as I hoped it would be.
I felt like the angel mentions at the end were a bit preachy and assumed the reader didn’t think for himself.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Help from Heaven combines Scriptural references, real-life experiences, and even prayers recounting some experiences of Andrea Jo Rodger, an EMT. Andrea Jo Rodgers combines the real-life experience of the victims along with the team who responds to the calls and the apparent divine intervention of angels.

Perhaps because we have friends who serve as EMTs and volunteer firefighters, I appreciate this book and how it brings to life the work of EMTs and law enforcement officers. Involving heart issues, hit-and-runs, and more, the author details not only the incidents leading up to the situation but also the care provided to the victim along with events following the experiences.

So check out this book of real-life experiences of an EMT and her team.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Joni Truex · Rating 4 out of 5]

Help from Heaven by Andrea Jo Rodgers tells the story of responders from the first aid and emergency squad of a small town. People call 911 for a variety of reasons which are detailed in this book. The responders do what they are trained to do to help people in distress. There is a strong faith theme.

This book was provided through Celebrate Lit and the author for me to read. The opinions expressed are my own thoughts.