Bolton woman dies after apparent heat exposure in garden

Special to The Bolton News

An 83-year-old Bolton woman died Saturday after she and her husband fell while working in their garden and were unable to get up for more than three hours in the summer heat.

Martha Irene Van Egmond died after the incident at the couple's home in Bolton. Officials with the Hinds County Coroner's Office suspect she died from heat exposure.

According to her husband, Rick Van Egmond, the couple had been working in their garden when they both fell and were unable to stand. They remained outside in the hot sun for more than three hours before help arrived.

Rick Van Egmond described his wife as a devoted Christian who enjoyed gardening, collecting toys and sharing her faith with others.

"I want her to be remembered as a loving, caring, Christian lady," he said. "She expressed Jesus wherever she was. People could see Jesus in her."

He said he hopes sharing his wife's story will help others recognize the dangers of extreme heat, even when they believe they are comfortable outdoors.

"The heat will kill you," Rick Van Egmond said. "The sun is hot. It's hotter than you think it is. We had been swimming, so our bodies had gotten cool, so we were comfortable outside. But that'll fool you, too. That's a trick."

He encouraged residents, especially older adults, to take precautions during periods of high temperatures by limiting time outdoors, staying hydrated and seeking help immediately if they become overheated or unable to move.

Despite his loss, Rick Van Egmond said his faith has given him strength.

"I miss her more than anybody will ever know," he said. "But she's with Jesus Christ in heaven. And I've got a promise that I'm going to see her again."

Officials continue to remind residents to use caution during periods of extreme heat, particularly older adults and those with underlying health conditions, as prolonged exposure to high temperatures can quickly become life-threatening.