Ep 9. Amanda, Matthew, Aimee
- TV14
- November 6, 2011
- 44 min
Amanda, Matthew, and Aimee are the focus of season 1 episode 9 of I Survived...Beyond and Back. The episode begins with Amanda, who lived a life of addiction and recklessness. One night while driving under the influence, Amanda got into a terrible car accident that left her on the brink of death. She recalls feeling her soul leave her body and being transported to a different realm where she was greeted by her deceased grandmother. Amanda describes feeling pure love and acceptance in this realm, and she knew that she wasn't meant to stay there forever. Amanda ultimately chooses to return to life and wake up in the hospital. She sees her accident as a second chance at life and chooses to turn her life around for the better.
The episode then shifts to Matthew's story, who was diagnosed with a rare heart condition as a child. As a result, Matthew underwent multiple surgeries and medical procedures throughout his life. After experiencing a severe heart attack, Matthew found himself in a dark tunnel surrounded by a bright light. He saw his deceased father and a familiar voice that urged him to turn back. Matthew chose to follow the voice's advice and woke up in the hospital, grateful for another chance at life. He credits his near-death experience as a turning point in his life, one that allowed him to live without fear and judgment.
Finally, the episode explores Aimee's story, who suffered from a severe asthma attack that caused her to lose consciousness. She describes being transported to a bright, warm place with a voice that instructed her to go back. Despite the beauty surrounding her, Aimee did not feel ready to leave her life behind and chose to return. In the hospital, she felt like she was given a newfound appreciation for life and a desire to live with purpose.
Throughout the episode, each person shares how their near-death experience transformed their approach to life. They gained a new perspective on what is most important, and their experiences gave them the motivation to live a fulfilling life. The episode highlights how each of their stories is unique, but they all share the common thread of the transformative impact of a near-death experience.